The Department of War (DoW) and the Department of Energy (DoE) are partnering to mark a historic milestone in advancing America's nuclear energy landscape and strengthening national security.
This groundbreaking collaboration with Valar Atomics is directly aligned with President Trump's Executive Order to reshape and modernize America's nuclear energy landscape.
On Sunday, February 15, 2026, a next-generation nuclear reactor will be transported via C-17 from March Air Reserve Base in California to Hill Air Force Base in Utah. The reactor will then be transported to Utah San Rafael Energy Lab (USREL) in Orangeville, Utah, for testing and evaluation.
The successful delivery and installation of this reactor will unlock significant possibilities for the future of energy resilience and strategic independence for our nation's defense, showcasing an agile, innovative, and commercial-first approach to solving critical infrastructure challenges. By harnessing the power of advanced nuclear technology, we are not only enhancing our national security but championing a future of American energy dominance.
Following the delivery, a formal press conference will be held at Hill Air Force Base, Utah, at 2:30 p.m. MT and will be livestreamed on war.gov, DOW social media channels, and broadcast on Channel 2 in the Pentagon. Speakers will include the Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, Undersecretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment Michael Duffey, the Governor of Utah Spencer Cox, and the CEO of Valar Atomics Isaiah Taylor.
This event is a testament to the ingenuity of the American spirit and a critical advancement in securing our nation's freedom and strength for generations to come.