The U.S. Department of the Air Force announced that it has identified Buckley Space Force Base and Malmstrom Air Force Base as preferred sites for deploying nuclear microreactors, marking a major step toward bringing compact atomic power to key military installations by 2030.
Bases enter detailed approval process
The selection was made under the Advanced Nuclear Power for Installations program, developed with support from the Defense Innovation Unit. The initiative focuses on deploying advanced microreactors that will be owned and operated by private companies.
Experts from the Air Force and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory conducted technical studies and on-site reviews before identifying the two bases. These assessments examined environmental conditions, nuclear safety, and how the reactors would integrate with existing energy systems.
However, the project is not yet finalized. Air Force spokesperson Laurel Falls said, on April 8, that the outcome depends on completing environmental reviews and nuclear licensing approvals. These steps are required before any construction can begin.
Why these locations were prioritized?
Officials said the two bases were chosen due to their strong infrastructure, available land, and mission importance. Buckley Space Force Base serves as the headquarters of Space Delta 4, which provides missile warning and space surveillance for the United States and its allies.
