Q&A · 3:11:48-3:12:49

How a small modular reactor could power a warship

A compact reactor makes sense as a steady base-load source when batteries or capacitors bridge demand spikes and gas turbines provide sustained surge power.

Question

Would a small modular reactor be a poor choice for a naval warship?

Short answer

No; it can supply steady base load effectively if energy storage and gas turbines handle rapid or sustained power surges.

Notes

A 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.