  Despite high demonstrated efficiency, lower-hybrid current drive (LHCD) has
not been considered localized enough for neoclassical tearing mode (NTM)
stabilization in tokamaks. This assessment must be reconsidered in view of the
RF current condensation effect. We show that an island with a central hot spot
induces significant localization of LHCD. Furthermore, in steady state tokamaks
where a significant amount of current is provided by LHCD, passive
stabilization of NTMs may occur automatically, particularly as islands become
large, without requiring precise aiming of the wave power.
