Would a small modular reactor be a poor choice for a naval warship?
Short answerNo; it can supply steady base load effectively if energy storage and gas turbines handle rapid or sustained power surges.
NotesA small modular reactor is proposed for a warship's steady hotel and cruising load. Its size and output would be chosen around that normal demand. Batteries or capacitors trickle-charged by the reactor could cover the first few minutes of a sudden increase. One or more gas turbines would then supply the additional power, taking advantage of their ability to start and increase output quickly.