U.S. military airlifts small reactor for the first time as Trump pushes to quickly deploy nuclear power
HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah (AP) — The U.S. military and energy officials have successfully airlifted a small nuclear reactor from California to Utah for the first time, showcasing what they say is the nation’s ability to rapidly deploy nuclear power systems for both defense and civilian needs.
The roughly 700-mile flight last weekend carried a 5-megawatt microreactor — transported without nuclear fuel — from March Air Reserve Base to Hill Air Force Base aboard a C-17 aircraft. Officials say the demonstration underscores the Donald Trump administration’s push to expand nuclear energy to meet rising electricity demand from artificial intelligence, data centers, and military operations.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Undersecretary of Defense Michael Duffey accompanied the reactor, built by California startup Valar Atomics. They described the Feb. 15 flight as a milestone toward accelerating commercial approval of microreactors — part of a broader effort to reshape U.S. energy policy.
A renewed focus on nuclear power
President Trump has promoted nuclear energy as a reliable, carbon-free electricity source, even while prioritizing fossil fuels and expressing skepticism toward some renewable energy technologies.
Critics, however, warn that microreactors may face safety, economic, and practical hurdles. Wright dismissed those concerns, citing regulatory changes under Trump that allow the Energy Department to approve certain advanced reactor designs — authority previously held by the independent Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
“Today is history,” Wright said before the flight. “A multi-megawatt, next-generation nuclear power plant is loaded in the C-17 behind us.”
He added that at least three similar microreactors are expected to reach criticality — sustaining nuclear reactions — by July 4, a target set by the president. “That’s speed, innovation, and the start of a nuclear renaissance,” Wright said.
Military and civilian applications
The United States currently operates 94 commercial nuclear reactors, producing about 19% of the nation’s electricity, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. That total has declined from 104 in 2013, though two large new reactors recently came online in Georgia.
Because traditional nuclear plants take years to build, government and industry have increasingly explored smaller designs, including projects backed by the Tennessee Valley Authority.
Officials say microreactors — compact and transportable — could deliver power to remote communities, data centers, or military bases independent of civilian grids. Duffey said mobile nuclear systems could ultimately strengthen energy security for deployed forces.
“This gets us closer to deploying nuclear power when and where it’s needed to give our warfighters the tools to win,” he said.
The reactor flown to Utah can generate up to 5 megawatts of electricity, enough for about 5,000 homes, according to Valar Atomics CEO Isaiah Taylor. The company hopes to begin test power sales next year and reach full commercialization by 2028.
Safety and waste concerns remain
Some experts say key issues are unresolved. Edwin Lyman of the Union of Concerned Scientists called the flight largely symbolic.
“It doesn’t answer whether the project is feasible, economic, workable, or safe — for the military or the public,” Lyman said.
He also questioned how fueled microreactors would be transported securely and how their nuclear waste would be handled. Wright said the Energy Department is discussing potential fuel-processing or disposal sites with Utah and other states.
The reactor will be tested at the Utah San Rafael Energy Lab, with fuel supplied by the Nevada National Security Site.
“The answer to energy is always more,” Wright said. After what he described as restrictions on fossil fuels during the previous administration, he added, “Now we’re trying to set everything free — and nuclear will be flying soon.”
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