USS Gerald R. Ford may be tested as floating power station for US bases

The U.S. Navy’s nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford could be used as a floating power plant to supply electricity to military bases and infrastructure, according to The National Interest.

The publication reports that the Navy plans to conduct tests this summer at the Norfolk naval base, where the carrier will transmit electricity to shore facilities. The ship is equipped with two A1B nuclear reactors capable of producing significantly more power than previous-generation systems.

Experts note that connecting a warship to a land-based power grid is a highly complex task, as shipboard systems operate at different frequencies and voltages, requiring specialised equipment and safety systems for integration.

The National Interest adds that if the tests are successful, similar technology could be applied to other U.S. Navy aircraft carriers.

Washington is also reportedly considering reusing reactors from decommissioned vessels to power data centres and artificial intelligence systems.