Executive Order 14299—Deploying Advanced Nuclear Reactor Technologies for National Security

Executive Order 14299, issued by President Donald J. Trump, focuses on deploying advanced nuclear reactor technologies for national security. The order directs the Secretary of Defense, through the Secretary of the Army, to establish a program for using nuclear energy at military installations. This includes starting the operation of a nuclear reactor, regulated by the United States Army, at a domestic military base or installation by September 30, 2028. The order also aims to encourage private sector investment in these technologies and coordinate efforts between the Department of Defense and the Department of Energy. This action affects critical defense facilities, military and national security installations, national laboratories, and private companies involved in advanced nuclear technologies.

The President stated that this action is needed to ensure a resilient, secure, and reliable energy supply for critical defense facilities and other mission capability resources. The reasoning provided is that advanced computing infrastructure for artificial intelligence and other resources at these installations require reliable, high-density power sources that cannot be disrupted by external threats or grid failures, as energy disruption poses a strategic risk. The order also aims to bolster readiness, enhance American technological superiority, and strengthen the ability to export U.S. nuclear technology to allies and partners. Executive orders are a long-established exercise of presidential power, grounded in Article II of the Constitution, and courts can review them for conformity with the Constitution and federal law.

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