India's Atomic Research Agency Exploring Mobile Nuclear Reactor Technology

Reports indicate that the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) is pioneering mobile nuclear reactor technology, a development with far-reaching implications for the civilian and defence sectors. Though BARC has not released specific details, experts speculate this system could have dual-use capabilities.

Civilian Possibilities​

The concept of a mobile reactor offers significant potential benefits. It could supply reliable power to remote or underserved regions lacking access to traditional energy grids. Such technology would be especially advantageous in areas with complex geographical challenges.

Military Considerations​

Questions arise regarding the potential military applications of this technology. BARC's established expertise in reactor development for both power generation and submarine propulsion raises the possibility that this mobile system could support advanced Electronic Warfare (EW) capabilities.

Global Context​

India's interest in mobile reactors aligns with its ongoing collaborations with France and Russia regarding the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). SMRs provide distinct advantages over larger traditional reactors. Their compact, factory-built design enables rapid deployment and reduced costs.

SMR Benefits​

The advantages of SMRs extend beyond portability. They represent a significant step towards industrial decarbonization, serving as a reliable and clean power source for diverse industries. Experts also suggest that SMRs are inherently safer due to their simplified design as compared to conventional nuclear plants.

This news highlights India's growing position in the global nuclear energy landscape. The potential impacts of this mobile reactor technology will likely be the subject of ongoing analysis and discussion within both civilian and strategic circles.

 

[Pramkumar]

this can be used as engine for Tanks and armoured vehicles

 

[Instant Karma]

It is a disaster in making.

 

[beencensured]

this can be used as engine for Tanks and armoured vehicles

Engine for tanks, it would be prize for terrorist. Do not need such expensive tank engines. Can power ships, trains, remote villages, DEW, and etc. Maybe if ISRO goes to mine He3 on moon first., India claim it's territory and build the world's biggest bomb.

 

[Anant]

this can be used as engine for Tanks and armoured vehicles

Nope, won't happen. Even if you could miniaturise the reactor to that extent, the cost and weight of the entire setup would make it entirely impractical for small vehicles.

 

[desigandu]

Modular, small but powerful nuclear reactors with HEU are critical to nuclear propulsion in submarines, aircraft carriers, icebreakers, nuclear+thermal rocket propulsion, and even for long term moon, mars and space colonies...BARC, ISRO can do this with vision, funding and an incremental approach...220-250MW and eventually 500MW small reactors if operationalized by 2035-2040, will be vital for national security...It is time for Bharat to not just follow but lead as we regain our rightful place as a great power.

 

[Sudha]

Most probably it will be used to power DEW weapon systems.

 

[Harsh Wardhan Gunthey]

Most probably it will be used to power DEW weapon systems.

Kali to be specific!
Infact there can be a hybrid power delivery system, when combined with lithium or sodium ion batteries, DEW weapons can be primed quicker.

 

[ABHIJIT APSINGIKAR]

The whole idea is s hair brained scheme cooked up by some fool. There are so many things that can go wrong. With the colorful record if non compliance to road safety standards pervasive within our country, all it would take us one accident and u would have urself a road mobile nuclear melt down similar to Chernobyl.

Then we don't need Pakistan to kill us, for such road mobile reactors would have already irriradiated much if India into a nuclear wasteland, when in an accident.

 

[Rutger Clausell]

would be cool if it can paired with ionic thrusters for space vehicles