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The US Army is collaborating with the advanced nuclear energy sector to assess the potential for deploying microreactors on one or more Army installations by 2030.
This initiative underscores the Army’s commitment to enhancing installation resilience and ensuring mission readiness through innovative energy solutions.
Microreactors, which are compact and transportable nuclear power systems, are emerging as a promising option to provide reliable, resilient and clean energy for critical military missions.
Their ability to operate independently of traditional energy grids makes them particularly well-suited for remote installations and contingency operations, where energy security is paramount.
Rachel Jacobson, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy and Environment, explained the importance of this development, saying, “When it comes to installation energy resilience and reliable power to support operational and strategic readiness on installations, we can’t leave anything off the table.”
The Army is pursuing this initiative as part of a deliberate and comprehensive planning process aimed at integrating advanced energy technologies to meet future operational demands. Advanced nuclear power, alongside other energy solutions, is being carefully evaluated to ensure it meets environmental, economic and safety requirements while supporting national security objectives.
In addition to enhancing energy resilience, microreactors could significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels, decrease logistical vulnerabilities, and support carbon reduction goals. Their scalability and adaptability make them a versatile tool for modernising military infrastructure and maintaining mission assurance in an increasingly complex global environment.
“We are actively developing a solution set that includes all types of power that will meet those needs; nuclear is one that we are looking at as part of our deliberate and thoughtful planning," Jacobson said.
The Army has partnered with the Defense Innovation Unit, interagency stakeholders, and utility providers to conduct rigorous assessments of siting options, reactor designs and operational feasibility. These collaborations are critical to ensure the successful integration of microreactors into the Army’s forward-leaning energy enterprise.
This initiative represents a key step towards leveraging next-generation technologies to strengthen national security and enhance the Army’s power-projection capabilities.
