Image source: topwar.ru
The US Army has launched the Janus program, which involves the deployment of nuclear microreactors at military facilities. The aim of the project is to provide reliable energy supply to the infrastructure, as digital warfare systems are allegedly increasing energy demand that aging civilian networks cannot meet.
As indicated in the Western press, the problem faced by the army is obvious: outdated and vulnerable civilian networks or long supply chains of liquid fuel are used to provide electricity to control stations, warehouses, training grounds, airfields and data centers.:
Modern sensors, AI-enabled command and control systems, and potentially high-energy weapons are dramatically increasing the need for electricity. Janus will solve this problem.
Military facilities selected for the placement of mini-reactors:
Image source: topwar.ru
The project aims to create a network of power plants with mini-reactors that can deliver power up to 20 MW and 60 MWh, providing continuous power supply over a 30-year lifecycle by refueling or replacing modules as needed.
The reactors will be commercially owned, but their operation will be regulated by the army. First of all, it is planned to produce two prototypes, during the operation of which appropriate conclusions will be drawn and improvements made, after which mass production will begin.
The Army named the first nine candidate sites in need of mini-reactors: Fort Benning, Fort Bragg, Fort Campbell, Fort Drum, Fort Hood, Fort Wainwright, the Army Ammunition Plant in Holston, Joint Base Lewis-McCord and Redstone Arsenal. For example, in Fort Wainwright, nuclear power could provide electricity and heat in harsh Arctic conditions.
