Preparation of ITER construction and operation

In parallel with negotiations on the Joint Implementation Agreement, which will establish the ITER Organisation, and on the future construction site, including the possibility of broadening the development approach, the ITER project is preparing on various technical fronts for a smooth start to construction. This technical preparation covers further development of the design, confirmation via R&D of fabrication methods and QA/QC of critical components, development of detailed technical specifications of long-lead items ready for call for tender (i.e. mainly magnets, vacuum vessel, and buildings), expansion of project infrastructural elements that will ease design management and control, and preparations for licensing. As part of preparation for the operation phase, developments are also underway to prepare for remote participation, and to incorporate the participation of participating laboratories worldwide in supply and operation of plasma heating and current drive systems, diagnostics and test blanket modules. This paper reviews the technical and organizational preparations for construction and operation, and the status of negotiations.