The United States on Monday airlifted a miniature nuclear reactor for the first time using a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft. Officials called it “The first-ever airlift of a nuclear reactor and ancillary systems via C-17, opening a wide aperture for strategic nuclear deployment around the World.” Three C-17A Globemaster III aircraft from the US Air Force’s 62nd and 437th Airlift Wings transported eight nuclear modules on Sunday. This mission is part of a joint effort between the Department of Defense and Department of Energy called Operation Windlord. The planes carried unfueled parts of the Valar Atomics Ward 250 reactor from March Air Reserve Base in California to Hill Air Force Base in Utah. Later, the reactor parts will be tested at the Utah San Rafael Energy Lab as part of the Department of Energy’s Nuclear Reactor Pilot Program. The Ward 250 reactor produces 5 megawatts and fits inside a C-17 aircraft. Testing will start at 250 kilowatts, with plans to reach full power. It could power about 5,000 homes. The reactor uses TRISO fuel, which has uranium kernels in ceramic layers, and helium coolant instead of water. For military use, these reactors could secure energy at bases and reduce reliance on civilian power grids. This airlift supports President Donald Trump’s push to boost nuclear power and improve military energy security. On May 23, 2025, Trump signed executive orders to advance nuclear technology and national security. Officials at March Air Reserve Base linked this project to national security. Utah Governor Spencer Cox said, “Energy is not just an economic issue, although it is that, it is a national security issue as well.” He added, “America cannot project freedom if we lack reliable deployable power at home and in the field.” Michael P Duffey, undersecretary of war for acquisition and sustainment, highlighted teamwork. “It’s clear to me that advancing President Trump’s priority on nuclear energy depends on close coordination between the Department of Energy and the Department of War,” Duffey said. He noted the system will help the military win “at extraordinary speed.” Energy Secretary Chris Wright called this part of “The American nuclear renaissance.” He said by July 4, ten small reactors would be critical, marking a fresh start for nuclear power. The Boeing C-17 Globemaster III can carry over 70 tonnes of cargo. It can land on short and rough runways and unload quickly through its rear ramp. This operation signals a shift towards modular nuclear systems that can be moved fast. It shows reactor modules can be transported across states or continents, giving the US more power to deploy nuclear energy quickly.