IAEA Completes Third IPPAS Mission to Japan, Commends Robust Nuclear Security Measures

The IPPAS team reviewed Japan’s nuclear security measures for nuclear material, nuclear facilities, radioactive materials, and computer security.

An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team has concluded its third International Physical Protection Advisory Service (IPPAS) mission in Japan. The two-week mission, conducted at Japan's request, took place from July 22 to August 2, 2024. The mission was hosted by the Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA) of Japan and included ten experts from various countries.

The IPPAS team reviewed Japan’s nuclear security measures for nuclear material, nuclear facilities, radioactive materials, and computer security. Notably, the team visited the Mihama Nuclear Power Station in Fukui prefecture, operated by Kansai Electric Power Company (KEPCO), and assessed the progress since the 2018 IPPAS mission, which included a review of the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa Nuclear Power Station (KKNPS).

Japan has been a party to the 2005 Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (CPPNM) since 2014. This amendment broadens the scope of physical protection obligations for nuclear facilities and materials used for peaceful purposes.

The IPPAS team, led by Joseph Sandoval of Sandia National Laboratories in the United States, included experts from Canada, Belgium, Hungary, Finland, Spain, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, and one IAEA staff member. The team engaged with officials from various Japanese agencies, including the NRA, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), National Police Agency (NPA), Japan Coast Guard (JCG), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), KEPCO, and TEPCO.

At the end of the mission, the team praised Japan’s robust nuclear security regime and offered recommendations for further improvement. They highlighted several good practices that could serve as examples for other IAEA Member States, contributing to global nuclear security enhancements.

Elena Buglova, Director of the IAEA Division of Nuclear Security, emphasized Japan's dedication to enhancing its nuclear security. “A third IPPAS mission within nine years showcases Japan’s commitment to improving national nuclear security and supporting the IAEA’s nuclear security program,” she said.

Shinsuke Yamanaka, Chairman of the NRA, expressed appreciation for the team’s efforts and indicated that Japan would act on the recommendations provided. “The results of the IPPAS mission will be instrumental in strengthening Japan's nuclear security regime. We are committed to improving our measures in cooperation with relevant ministries and agencies,” he stated.