On October 15, 2025, the U.S. Army announced the launch of a new energy transition strategy named “Project Janus” to address the growing challenges posed by China in the Indo-Pacific region. The goal of this project is to deploy portable micro nuclear reactors at nine military bases in the U.S. by 2028, aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and civilian power grids, ensuring a stable energy supply for frontline operations.
At the AUSA conference, Army Secretary Daniel P. Driscoll and Energy Secretary Chris Wright unveiled this ambitious plan. The development and production of next-generation mobile micro reactors are expected to advance the U.S. nuclear energy industry, which has faced suppression due to long-standing “fear of nuclear energy.”
Some of these reactors are small enough to be mounted on truck beds, providing reliable and uninterrupted power supply for potential conflicts in the Indo-Pacific region.
Driscoll emphasized the importance of energy resilience in the face of conflicts in the region, highlighting the need for unprecedented means to acquire power to meet operational goals.
While the United States remains the world’s largest producer of nuclear energy, Wright anticipates rapid growth in the industry in the next 10 to 15 years. He emphasized the need to produce ample energy to attract industries back to the U.S. and supply allies with energy to foster friendly relationships.
The name “Janus” is derived from Roman mythology, symbolizing “transition.”
According to Army officials leading the initiative, the project will transition from prototyping to fully commercial nuclear power, providing energy resilience for military personnel.
Over the next five years, hundreds of millions of dollars will be invested in this project, ensuring the U.S. remains competitive in resource mobilization amid great power competition.
Micro reactors can generate between 1MW to 20MW of power, sufficient to power a small town or military facility for years without refueling. Their mobility allows for quick deployment within weeks and provision of stable, zero-carbon power in challenging or dangerous locations.
Companies like Valar Atomics are streamlining the production process of micro reactors for rapid deployment, with plans for building reactors within two months.
The “Project Janus” reflects President Trump’s executive order, directing the Department of Defense to operationalize a military-regulated nuclear reactor at military facilities by September 2028.
Wright pledged that the project will have at least one operational reactor by July 4, 2026, showcasing a commitment to its successful implementation.
The unique aspect of the “Project Janus” lies in its innovative commercial model where commercial companies will build and operate these micro reactors, instead of military ownership. The Army plans to use milestone-based contracts similar to NASA’s Commercial Orbital Transportation Services to stimulate a dual-use market for micro reactors, stimulating private investment and industry growth.
This collaboration between the Energy Department and the military harks back to the Manhattan Project during World War II, demonstrating the close relationship and collaboration between the two entities from the outset.