Overview of nuclear fusion

This paper overviews the position of nuclear fusion in Japan's policies and the state of studies for the realization of DEMO reactor. First, it overviews the following: (1) 'The 3rd stage nuclear fusion research and development basic plan' formulated in June 1992, (2) 'Promotion policy for future nuclear fusion research and development' formulated in October 2005, (3) Progress of research and development including ITER project, (4) 'Toward the promotion of research and development of fusion prototype reactor,' which was compiled in December 2017 to show a new policy for Japan's prototype reactor to replace previous promotion plan, and (5) 'Prototype reactor research and development roadmap (The 1st stage summary)' formulated in July 2018. Based on the policy position of fusion research and development, this paper describes the following: (1) ITER project currently being worked on, (2) Construction and validation of the prototype accelerator, which is used for the engineering validation and engineering design activities (EVEDA) of the international fusion material irradiation facility (IFMIF) at Rokkasho Fusion Institute, which is broad approach activities, and (3) Current state of construction and utilization of JT-60SA (satellite & tokamak project). As the future tasks and challenges of nuclear fusion research and development, this paper points out the importance of outreach activities to foster and secure human resources and gain understanding from society. (A.O.)