A team of Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute and Daewoo Engineering & Construction has won a $173m deal to develop Jordan’s first nuclear research reactor.

The client is the Jordan Atomic Energy Commission (JAEC).

The group will build a 5MW reactor by 2014. JAEC will use the facility for research, development and training, as well as for radioisotope production for medical purposes.

Three other companies bidding for the deal include Russia’s Atomstroyexport, Argentina’s Invap and China National Nuclear Corporation.

Meanwhile, Amman awarded a feasibility study contract on its first nuclear power plant project to Australia’s WorleyParsons in early November. The company will carry out pre-construction work and advise JAEC on the choice of nuclear technology. Belgium’s Tractebel is carrying out a site study for the scheme.