Radiation Monitoring System for Nuclear Power Plants Now Manufactured in Russia
JSC Specialized Research Institute of Instrument Engineering has completed the full-cycle development and production of radiation monitoring equipment for nuclear power plants.
The Russian RGB-14R1 system, equipped with the UDGB-47R detection unit, has been officially included in the register of Russian industrial products and the unified register of radioelectronic products maintained by the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
System Scope and Monitoring Capabilities
The SNIIIP-developed system is designed to measure the volumetric activity of inert radioactive gases via beta radiation, a key safety parameter at nuclear power plants. The system monitors gas-air environments in discharge channels, ventilation systems, process pipelines and operating areas. This enables real-time assessment of fuel cladding integrity and primary circuit equipment, which serve as a critical barrier preventing the release of radionuclides beyond the reactor system.
The installation includes the UDGB-47R detection unit, the UNO-280R data processing system, a sampling module and auxiliary equipment for power supply and switching. The system has passed state examination confirming that development, manufacturing and certification were carried out within Russia.
Industry Significance
For Rosatom, inclusion of the system in Ministry of Industry and Trade registers reflects a long-term programme to upgrade automated radiation monitoring systems (ASRK). It enables priority access to state and industry procurement, eligibility for tax incentives and support measures, and reinforces technological sovereignty in nuclear instrumentation.
JSC SNIIIP is part of Rosatom’s Automated Control Systems and Electrical Engineering division. The institute supplies its systems not only to Russian nuclear power plants but also to international Rosatom projects, including facilities in Bangladesh and Turkey.
In the near term, the institute plans to register around 20 additional equipment types, including new developments in radiation detection and field analysis.
Technological Independence
Previously, Russia depended on imported detectors and electronic components, creating exposure to sanctions-related constraints and supply chain disruptions. Today, domestic industry is capable of delivering complex measurement systems on a full-cycle basis, from research and development to serial production and lifecycle support.
This capability is particularly relevant given the large-scale programme to modernise existing nuclear power plants and construct new units in Russia and abroad. Each of Russia’s 11 nuclear power units, along with multiple international projects, requires reliable, certified and supply-independent monitoring systems. The RGB-14R1 system forms part of an updated safety architecture.
Development Outlook
SNIIIP continues to expand system functionality, including the introduction of AI-based tools for deviation forecasting, improved detector sensitivity and integration with plant-level digital control platforms. These solutions are expected to be deployed across operating VVER and RBMK reactors, as well as new-generation units such as VVER-TOI and BREST-OD-300.
This case illustrates the combined effect of sector expertise, state support and sustained market demand.
