Small reactors and future warships

Will non-carrier warships use nuclear power in the future?

Small reactors may make it viable for selected large ships, but an all-nuclear fleet would be very costly and difficult to justify.

Small modular reactors may become practical for selected warship roles as the technology becomes more compact. Large vessels such as carriers are the clearest candidates because their electrical and endurance demands can justify the plant. A reactor aboard a carrier or support ship could also provide energy to produce hydrogen fuel for smaller vessels. Making every combatant nuclear powered would impose exceptional cost and disposal burdens on ships that remain vulnerable in war.