For the first time, the United States has transported a small nuclear reactor by air, marking a significant step in the country’s push to expand advanced nuclear energy for both military and civilian use.
The operation was carried out by the United States Department of Defense and the United States Department of Energy, which moved a 5-megawatt microreactor (without nuclear fuel) aboard a military C-17 aircraft from March Air Reserve Base in California to Hill Air Force Base—a flight of about 1,126 kilometers.
Officials say the mission demonstrates the ability to rapidly deploy nuclear power systems in remote locations or during emergencies. The initiative is also part of efforts by the administration of Donald Trump to expand nuclear energy as demand for electricity grows, particularly from artificial intelligence systems and data centers.
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Deputy Defense Secretary Michael Duffey accompanied the privately built reactor during the flight and described the operation as a milestone for accelerating the licensing and deployment of microreactors.
The reactor, roughly the size of a minivan, was produced by Valar Atomics. According to the company, it can generate up to 5 megawatts of electricity—enough to power around 5,000 homes. At least three similar reactors are expected to reach operational readiness later this year.
Supporters argue that nuclear energy offers reliable, carbon-free power, while critics warn that microreactors still raise safety, cost, and practicality concerns.
Currently, the United States operates 94 nuclear reactors, producing roughly 19% of the country’s electricity, according to federal energy data.
