US Energy, War Department partner on next-generation nuclear reactor

The US Department of War and the Department of Energy have announced a collaboration on nuclear power, including the transport and testing of a next-generation reactor.

“At March Air Reserve Base, California, today, a next-generation nuclear reactor was loaded aboard a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft for transport to Hill Air Force Base, Utah,” US Department of War’s official web account stated on Sunday.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the transfer of small reactors signals the start of an “American nuclear renaissance,” driven by private investment and innovation.

He added that executive orders signed by US President Donald Trump since taking office have removed obstacles that had slowed the US nuclear industry.

According to the statement, the reactor will later be transferred to the Utah San Rafael Energy Lab, where it will undergo testing and evaluation.

The reactor, known as Ward 250, is a 5-megawatt unit small enough to be transported by a C-17 aircraft and capable of powering about 5,000 homes.

The statement said it would strengthen energy security at military bases by reducing reliance on civilian grids and fuel supply lines and that the project is “firmly in line with” Trump’s executive orders to modernize the US nuclear energy sector.

Describing the partnership as critically important, Undersecretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment Michael P. Duffey said the future of warfare is becoming increasingly energy-intensive, citing AI data centers, directed energy weapons, and space and cyber infrastructure.

• US Department of War and the Department of Energy