U.S. airlifts small nuclear reactor for the first time

businessinsider
2026.02.16 09:17

The U.S. Departments of Energy and Defense successfully airlifted a small nuclear reactor for the first time, part of a push for a nuclear energy revival. The Ward 250 reactor was transported from California to Utah for testing. This 5-megawatt reactor could power around 5,000 homes and enhance energy security for military bases. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright emphasized the importance of private capital and innovation in this nuclear renaissance, with expectations for three reactors to be operational by July 4.