US Army awards up to $2.2 billion to five companies to build microreactors on bases

The U.S. Army has announced plans to award up to $2.2 billion to five companies to build and operate microreactors on military bases, with the aim of eventually powering remote installations. These so-called microreactors are tiny, factory-built nuclear plants that developers claim can be easily transported and generate up to 20 megawatts of power each.

The Army's Janus program has a goal of deploying the first reactor by September 2028, with selected companies including Antares Nuclear Inc in North Carolina, BWXT Advanced Technologies LLC in Kentucky, General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems in Texas, Radiant Industries Inc in Georgia, and Westinghouse Government Services in New York.

The Army will regulate the reactors, not the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and expects the private sector to raise more funds for the project, helping to attract capital.

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