French Army to Explore the Use of Nuclear Microreactors

The French Army plans to explore the use of nuclear microreactors to power military facilities.

The document “Déclinaison capacitaire d’Action Aéroterrestre Future” (DCF), published by the French Army’s Future Combat Command (CCF), states this.

Nuclear units could supply electricity to command posts, logistics bases, and field hospitals.

In the DCF document, the French military identified three main areas for developing energy capabilities. The first involves developing compact, high-energy-density batteries for infantry soldiers and robotic systems.

The second area focuses on hybridizing and electrifying armored vehicles. This is intended to reduce their signature and provide additional power for onboard equipment.

The third area involves studying containerized nuclear power units that could effectively supply electricity to military forces.

It remains unclear whether the French Army will adopt existing technologies or commission the development of a dedicated reactor for military use.

The DCF document refers to exploring this area, rather than selecting a specific manufacturer or approving a procurement program.

The United States is pursuing a similar approach. In August 2026, the U.S. Army announced contracts worth up to $2.2 billion with five companies to build and operate nuclear microreactors at five military bases.

The U.S. military aims to secure a reliable power source that reduces dependence on civilian power grids and ensures uninterrupted operation of military facilities.

Unlike naval reactors, which are government-owned, the small Janus reactors will be privately owned and operated under Army oversight.

The Department of Energy is supporting the project in three areas: HALEU fuel production, prototype testing, and regulatory reform.