On June 16, the 24th issue of the 2025 “Outlook” Weekly, in its “In-Depth Observation” column, published an article titled “The Potential of Private Forces in Controlled Nuclear Fusion Gradually Unleashed,” focusing on HHMAX (Chengdu) Technology Co., Ltd. and other private entities advancing China’s fusion industry. This marks the third time this year that HHMAX and private fusion companies have been highlighted by national-level media, underscoring the attention from the media and the public toward the development of the controlled nuclear fusion industry, as well as recognition of the contributions made by HHMAX and other private forces in driving the sector forward. The article was simultaneously published on the Xinhua News Agency client, where views quickly surpassed 200,000.
The article introduces the development and technological innovations of commercial fusion enterprises from three perspectives: “Private Forces Entering the Field,” “Initial Demonstration of Flexible Advantages,” and “Greater Potential Awaiting Release.” It notes that private enterprises in China’s controlled nuclear fusion sector are developing rapidly, leveraging advantages such as diverse technical routes, agility, speed, and relatively lower costs to ignite their own “small suns,” becoming a complementary force to the “national team” in scientific and technological innovation. As bottlenecks in technology and funding are gradually overcome, this innovative force is expected to play an even greater role in the development of the “ultimate energy.”
The article specifically mentions HHMAX and its adopted Field-Reversed Configuration (FRC) technical route. “We have chosen the Field-Reversed Configuration (FRC) technical route, which has a simpler structure. It does not require the construction of massive and complex toroidal magnetic field coils, potentially reducing the difficulty and cost of engineering implementation,” said HHMAX Chairman Xiang Jiang in an interview. He added that national-level institutions excel in basic research and scientific exploration, while private enterprises place greater emphasis on the commercial feasibility and engineering progress of technological R&D and application. This allows for more flexible adjustments in funding and technology, shortening the cycle from the lab to the market as much as possible.
The article also highlights HHMAX’s innovative “laying eggs along the way” development model. Before achieving power generation, the HHMAX team first utilizes neutrons produced during the fusion process to develop technologies for cancer treatment, neutron imaging, and nuclear waste processing, thereby generating partial commercial returns in advance.
This coverage marks the third time this year that HHMAX and private fusion companies have been featured by national-level media, following reports by the “Economic Reference News” on March 27 and the “Xinhua News Agency” overseas app on April 8. It reflects the rapid development momentum of controlled nuclear fusion. While media attention remains on national-level R&D, there is increasing focus on the growth of private enterprises like HHMAX, with high recognition given to their contributions in the R&D and commercialization of controlled nuclear fusion.