The Department of the Air Force (DAF), along with the Defense Innovation Unit, announced they have chosen Joint Base San Antonio as the host of a new state-of-the-art nuclear microreactor. The energy project is in conjunction with advanced nuclear firm Antares and will bolster national security by delivering dependable, uninterrupted power for critical installation missions.
This public-private partnership is made possible through collaboration across all levels of government, with the Military Transformation Task Force (MTTF) playing an active role in advancing the project within the broader community. The MTTF brings local public officials and stakeholders together to support, strengthen, and protect San Antonio’s military installations. It is chaired by Bexar County Pct. 3 Commissioner Grant Moody, San Antonio District 9 Councilwoman Misty Spears, and Greater San Antonio Chamber President & CEO Jeff Webster.
“By bringing advanced nuclear energy to Joint Base San Antonio, we can ensure mission continuity even during grid outages, severe weather, or cyber threats,” said Moody. “On-site resilient energy is critical for mission success at JBSA, and this investment will both strengthen national security and enhance our energy resilience.”
This project is made possible through the DAF’s Advanced Nuclear Power for Installations initiative, which reflects a renewed era of nuclear energy in Texas and the United States —advancing innovative reactor technologies to strengthen energy reliability, national security, and economic growth. Texas currently has two nuclear power plants, and it has been more than 30 years since the last nuclear plant was commissioned.
“This advanced nuclear pilot will also provide an unprecedented firsthand opportunity for CPS Energy as they explore clean, reliable, safe commercial nuclear production,” said Spears. “Commissioner Moody and I have met with the Governor’s Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office and are excited to partner in this rebirth of Texas nuclear energy. This is a win for our city as Military City, USA, as well as for our great state of Texas and our country.”
Webster echoed those comments and emphasized the impact of public-private collaboration when advocating for investments in the region. “This project is a strong example of what can be achieved when local leadership, industry, and the military unite around a shared vision, as we advocated for it during SA to DC. It not only strengthens the resilience of Joint Base San Antonio but further emphasizes our community’s role in advancing national security priorities.”