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Nuclear Nonproliferation: Japan's Shipment of Plutonium Raises Concerns About Reprocessing

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Report Type Reports and Testimonies
Report Date June 14, 1993
Report No. RCED-93-154
Subject
Summary:

In January 1993, the Japanese ship Akatsuki Maru, along with an armed escort vessel, completed a 2-month voyage during which it transported 1.7 tons of plutonium oxide from France to Japan. Although the plutonium had been reprocessed at a French facility, it was originally obtained from the United States in the form of spent nuclear fuel. The Japanese sought the plutonium to generate commercial nuclear power. Under a 1988 agreement between Japan and the United States, Japan is required to ensure the physical security and safety of such shipments. This report discusses the physical security and safety of the Akatsuki Maru shipment, as well as any costs to the United States arising from it. In addition, the report discusses broader issues raised by the shipment, including concerns about reprocessing and the resulting growth in world plutonium stocks. Finally, the report discusses the implications of the 1988 agreement for future U.S. nuclear agreements.

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