The Federal Drive with Terry Gerton Army looks to small nuclear reactors to power critical infrastructure
Nov 21, 2025
Dr. Jeff Waxman, the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy, and Environment, dives into the Army's innovative plans to use small nuclear microreactors for critical infrastructure. He highlights how these reactors provide continuous power for harsh environments. Discussion includes cost-effectiveness challenges, the Army's efforts to shape the commercial nuclear supply chain, and the ambitious prototype testing at nine bases. Waxman also aims to attract talent to nuclear technology, hoping to ignite interest similar to the SpaceX era.
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Microreactors Solve Remote Resiliency Gaps
- The Army views small nuclear microreactors as the only current option to provide long-duration, 24/7 power in remote Arctic and Pacific sites.
- Cost-effectiveness remains unresolved, but parity with high local rates (e.g., Alaska, Hawaii) could make them viable.
Compare Against Local Power Economics
- The Army will evaluate microreactors' value by comparing resiliency benefits against acceptable cost thresholds.
- Focus initial comparisons on locales already paying high rates (40–50¢/kWh) rather than typical 12¢/kWh markets.
Government Role In Industry Standardization
- The Army wants to shape the emerging commercial microreactor industry to standardize supply chains and qualified materials.
- Standardization aims to move reactor components from one-off custom parts to scalable assembly-line production.