The platforms have two modes – floating and submersible, and the first will be commissioned before 2020.

The platforms will focus on solving power supply issues in the Xisha Islands and other islands in the South China Sea where infrastructure construction is underway.

The nuclear reactor-related technology, when successfully reduced in size, could be later applied to the country's military vessels, including nuclear-powered aircraft carriers or next generation nuclear submarines.

The first floating ACPR50S nuclear reactor to enter service in 2020, with a thermal output of 200 megawatts and electrical output of 60 megawatts.