Could the Hungarian nuclear power plant withstand an attack?

The war in Ukraine has been ongoing for three and a half weeks and the number of refugees trying to flee the conflicts is unwavering. According to recent sources, the Russian army is said to be using a special rocket and is projected to take over strategic locations such as nuclear plants. So the question arises: could the Hungarian nuclear power plant withstand a Russian attack? 

Many people are worried that the conflict could escalate even further and affect countries neighbouring Ukraine. Some people are even afraid of what might happen if the Hungarian nuclear power plant in Paks suffers a hit.

While this question is somewhat far-fetched, the Hungarian Atomic Energy Authority has said that they are ready to order an “enhanced physical protection”. Index asked an expert to explain this term in further detail and shed some light on the dangers a potential direct hit would pose.

Since the Russian forces took over Chernobyl and the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station, which is the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, the International Atomic Energy Agency called on ending the hostilities. In addition, the Hungarian Atomic Energy Authority has put forth the potential need for an “enhanced physical protection” at the Paks nuclear power plant.

• Read also: What to expect in Hungary in case of a nuclear accident in Ukraine?

What does enhanced physical protection mean?

Máté Szieberth, Associate Professor and Head of Department at the Institute of Nuclear Techniques of the Budapest University of Technology and Economics, said that “the Paks nuclear power plant is an important strategic location and is under constant protection by a team of armed security personnel, but in case of heightened danger, such as a war, terrorist or other threat, they can order an ‘enhanced physical protection’ which would involve the Hungarian law enforcement authorities’ help (military, police, air- and cyber defence).

If the situation requires it, they can order immediate austerity measures, however, these are confidential and will be determined by the severity of the threat.