ERWIN, Tenn. (WJHL) — On Thursday, BWX Technologies, Inc. revealed that it has secured a $174 million contract from the U.S. Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program to produce nuclear reactor fuel for naval vessels.

The task of manufacturing and supplying the fuel for the Naval Reactors Program will be undertaken by Nuclear Fuel Services, Inc., a subsidiary of BWXT based in Erwin, according to a statement from BWXT.

The project is already underway, with completion targeted for the summer of 2026, the company reported.

“As the U.S. Navy marks its 250th anniversary, BWXT takes pride in supporting our exceptional fleet now and looking ahead,” stated Gary Camper, president of BWXT’s Nuclear Operations Group, in the announcement. “The dedicated team at NFS consistently delivers the quality and commitment required to support the Navy’s worldwide mission of upholding freedom and security.”

The contract was officially awarded in September, as mentioned in the release.