First micro-nuclear power plant is coming to Indiana

CRANE, Ind. - A new U.S. military initiative reports that Naval Weapons Station (NWS) Crane, about 25 miles southwest of Bloomington, will be Indiana’s first advanced Micro Modular Reactor (MMR) site, to be installed by 2028.

The project reviewed energy resilience, facility security, and critical defense operations across the USA.

The Department of Defense estimates the factory-assembled microreactor will provide independent, around-the-clock electric power; engineers project it will drastically lower capital costs and on-site build times. The base also boasts a reinforced infrastructure capable of sustaining vital national security missions completely isolated from the commercial electrical grid. 

“This is exciting news for our state,” said Indiana Senator Todd Young. “This first-of-its-kind mission will bring the highest levels of nuclear expertise to our state and is another example of the important role Hoosiers are playing in our national security.”

Military leaders recently launched a major energy resilience effort, including improvements to the base's primary grid networks, localized backup systems, and the integration of next-generation power sources.

NWS Crane, known as a critical hub for naval electronics and electronic warfare, is home to thousands of research scientists and an extensive collection of advanced engineering labs. 

The new facility will operate alongside the Army's Janus Program, the Navy, and the State of Indiana. Local communities will benefit from the project's regional economic stability alongside multiple collaborative research partnerships with nearby universities.