machine’s neutral beam heating power to double from 4.4 megawatts (MW) to 8.8 MW

All major hardware is expected to be manufactured and fitted inside the double beam box vessel by the end of autumn 2027. The vacuum-tight vessel will then be commissioned for use in scientific experiments due to begin in 2028. 

UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) has manoeuvred a massive 12-tonne component into position for MAST Upgrade, the UK’s flagship fusion machine, at UKAEA’s Culham Campus. This marks a significant technological milestone for the engineers and the organisation.

The double beam box features a double-decker layout designed to house two neutral beam injectors (NBIs). A neutral beam injector plays a vital role in fusion research by firing high-energy neutral atoms into the plasma, raising its temperature to more than 30 million degrees Celsius. 

By introducing two more injectors within MAST Upgrade’s existing setup, the new double beam box will allow the

Image credit: Engineering Talent Awards

UKAEA has won the Large Employer of the Year award at the 2026 Engineering Talent Awards, run by EqualEngineers.

Judges recognised UKAEA for its equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) policies, wellbeing support, and training for apprentices and graduates.

UKAEA's submission included many testimonials from members of the graduate scheme. They spoke of UKAEA's positive effect on their day-to-day working lives.

"UKAEA is showing how a large employer can lead the way in attracting, developing and supporting engineering talent", the judges remarked.