This contribution reviews a number of small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) studies of irradiated metals and steels of relevance to fission and fusion technology. Information obtainable by SANS measurements is recalled with special reference to the determination of the size distribution function of the microstructural inhomogeneities. The selected examples concern studies of the main kinds of radiation defects: voids, precipitates, He-bubbles. Some recent results obtained on structural materials for the “first-wall” of fusion reactors are also presented.