The Department of the Air Force and the Defense Logistics Agency’s Energy Office intend to award a contract to Oklo, an advanced nuclear technology company, to develop and operate a microreactor at a DAF installation.
The potential contract award complies with key legislative and executive initiatives that promote the development and use of small modular reactors for national defense and support the current administration’s efforts to increase domestic energy production, DAF said Tuesday.
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Strengthening Energy Security at Military Sites
Microreactors can produce 1 to 50 megawatts of electricity for years without the need to refuel or connect to the commercial grid. It ensures uninterrupted power supply anywhere, even in remote locations.
“To achieve peace through strength and uphold National Defense Strategy priorities, the Department of the Air Force must ensure our installations promote lethality and readiness,” commented Nancy Balkus, deputy assistant secretary of the Air Force for infrastructure, energy and environment. “Strengthening mission resilience, reducing dependence on vulnerable energy sources, and fielding next-generation technologies is integral to our ability to defend the homeland and project power globally.”
Oklo as DAF’s Nuclear Partner
According to Michael Saunders, acting assistant secretary of the Air Force for energy, installations and environment, Oklo was selected to develop and operate the military branch’s first microreactor after an extensive evaluation of the company’s commitment to safety and capability to respond to mission-critical installation needs.
“We are excited to partner with Oklo to take a significant step toward enhancing energy security at our installations,” he said.
DAF is eyeing the Eielson Air Force Base in Fairbanks, Alaska, as the site of its planned microreactor facility. The department is working with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to conduct an environmental analysis for the project.
“Operating in extreme Arctic conditions to protect the homeland and ensure readiness for our 5th generation F-35A force demands 24/7 resilient and reliable energy generation, and this project would advance our posture to achieve national security objectives to be ‘Ready to go at 50 below,’” Col. Paul Townsend, commander of the 54th Fighter Wing at Eielson AFB, added.
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