Call:
EUROfusion
This project represents a unique opportunity for developing IFE research in Europe and proposing the construction of an International, civilian, implosion facility dedicated to direct drive. It is a big jump for inertial fusion in Europe: from studying some physical aspects of ICF as “keep in touch” activities to paving the way to a future research program and a future facility on IFE in Europe.
Beyond technical progress, HiPER+RF will reinforce the European IFE ecosystem through workshops, schools, and industry–academia forums, while preparing long-term EU and national support for ESFRI integration. It will also train the next generation of fusion scientists and engineers. The project offers both a pathway to ignition and high-gain DD fusion and a strategic investment in Europe’s energy autonomy, technological leadership, and the green transition.
The EUROfusion Consortium decided to allocate 2.7 mln EUR – plus a similar amount contributed by the participating nations. The funding from the Enabling Research budget was allocated for the period 2026-2027 to support more than 140 researchers belonging to 30 research groups from 12 countries to prepare a conceptual design of a next-generation European laser fusion research facility for studies on direct drive inertial confinement fusion. It is planned that the facility would be designed to achieve ignition, scale to high gain (exceeding 100) and operate at Hz repetition rates under reactor-relevant conditions.
