Core Insights - The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2026 is acting as a catalyst for the nuclear energy sector, emphasizing its importance in national security and reindustrialization [1] - The bill authorizes approximately $901 billion in national defense discretionary funding, with $34.3 billion allocated to the Department of Energy (DOE) for national security programs, indicating a long-term demand for nuclear power [2] - The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) received $26 billion in authorizations, marking a significant increase compared to previous years [2] Military Adoption of Nuclear Technology - The NDAA expands the Department of Defense's (DOD) authority to pilot and deploy Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), prioritizing advanced nuclear technology at naval-support installations [3] - A pilot program is established to integrate SMRs into the DOD footprint, following a recent $800 million federal cost-share award to support early SMR deployments [3] - The U.S. Army is pursuing black-start capabilities through Project Janus, aiming to deploy commercial microreactors at nine domestic installations by the end of the decade [4] Investment Opportunities - Federal commitments to nuclear technology provide advantages to companies capable of delivering modular designs, with initial deployments at military bases paving the way for future civilian applications [5] - Advisors looking to invest in the intersection of defense policy and energy technology may consider the Range Nuclear Renaissance ETF (NUKZ), which tracks companies across the nuclear fuel and energy industry [6] - NUKZ's holdings are positioned to benefit from the increased focus on U.S. energy security and modernization efforts outlined in the NDAA [6]