Abstract: An actively mode-locked Nd:YAG laser with an optimized resonator was demonstrated which can provide with large mode volume in the active material and high stability against thermal lensing fluctuations. By using a compact pump module which utilizes a radial array of close-coupled diode laser arrays for efficient direct side pumping of the Nd:YAG rod, as well as, a phase-lock loop circuit, 10 W continuous-wave mode-locked stable pulses were obtained. 