US Navy to test 100,000-ton aircraft carrier as floating nuclear power station

The U.S. Navy is exploring whether the USS Gerald R. Ford’s nuclear reactors can supply shore power while the carrier is docked.

A planned test at Naval Station Norfolk would examine turning the ship into a temporary floating power source for base or grid use.

If it works, the concept could provide backup energy for military sites and emergency support for civilian infrastructure.

The plan still faces major technical, regulatory, and operational hurdles, including readiness and nuclear oversight.