WASHINGTON - The United States military has for the first time transported a mini nuclear reactor by air.
This step is part of President Donald Trump's plan to expand the use of nuclear energy as a strategic energy source. The report was delivered by the Anadolu news agency, quoted on Monday, February 16.
It is said that three C-17 giant transport planes on Sunday carried the Ward 250 reactor modules without fuel from March Air Reserve Base, California, to Hill Air Force Base, Utah. At this location, reactor testing is scheduled to begin immediately.
A number of officials from the United States Department of Defense and Department of Energy, journalists, and industry representatives were reportedly on board the flight, which lasted about an hour. This information was quoted by Anadolu from a Wall Street Journal report.
The mini-reactor was developed by Valar Atomics and is part of a mission to accelerate the development of next-generation nuclear technology. In its energy agenda, Trump targets at least three new generation nuclear reactors to be operational by no later than July 4.
Supporters of the program assess that compact-sized reactors are capable of providing a reliable energy supply in remote locations and military facilities. However, a number of parties have warned that the acceleration of the development of private nuclear reactors has the potential to raise concerns regarding safety aspects.
"Energy is not just an economic issue, but also a national security issue," said Utah Governor Spencer Cox.
US defense acquisition official Michael Duffey said the mission opens up opportunities for the use of nuclear energy in locations that most need power support for military purposes.
Meanwhile, Valar Atomics CEO Isaiah Taylor stated that initial reactor testing would be carried out at a capacity of 250 kilowatts before being increased to 5 megawatts. This capacity is considered sufficient to meet the electricity needs of around 5,000 homes.
This mini nuclear reactor uses TRISO fuel and helium cooling system, unlike conventional reactors which are generally water-based.
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