US Conducts Its First-Ever Airlift of Mini Nuclear Reactor
TMedia disclosed that three C-17 cargo aircraft delivered the unfueled Ward 250 reactor modules from March Air Reserve Base to Hill Air Force Base, where experimental operations are scheduled to commence.
Pentagon and Energy Department officials, along with journalists and industry delegates, accompanied the reactor throughout the approximately one-hour transport mission.
Valar Atomics developed the system as part of the administration's campaign to fast-track next-generation nuclear technologies, with Trump committing to achieve at least three advanced reactors reaching "critical" status on American territory by July 4.
Proponents contend miniaturized reactors could deliver dependable power to isolated or defense installations, though skeptics caution that expedited, privately engineered systems may present safety risks.
"Energy is not just an economic issue, although it is that, it is a national security issue as well," said Utah Governor Spencer Cox. Defense procurement chief Michael Duffey stated the operation "gets us closer to deploying nuclear power when and where it is most needed to give our nation's war fighters the tools to win."
Valar Atomics CEO Isaiah Taylor indicated experimental phases will launch at 250 kilowatts, with the reactor designed to eventually produce up to five megawatts—sufficient to supply approximately 5,000 residences—utilizing TRISO fuel technology and helium-based cooling mechanisms instead of traditional water systems.
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