U.S. Boneyard Aircraft May Fuel Future AI Data Centers

Tech Giants Eye Retired U.S. Military Aircraft to Help Power AI Data Centers

The rapid growth of artificial intelligence is driving an unprecedented surge in electricity demand across the United States. As utilities struggle to deliver new grid connections fast enough, technology companies are searching for power sources that can be deployed in months instead of years. One unexpected option is the U.S. Air Force’s famous aircraft “Boneyard” in Arizona.

Located at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, the Boneyard stores about 4,000 retired military aircraft. A recent analysis by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) suggests that the engines from these aircraft could theoretically provide up to 40,000 megawatts (40 GW) of electricity generation capacity if they were converted into stationary power generators.

The report notes that this estimate represents only the maximum technical potential. It does not mean all of the aircraft engines can realistically be converted or deployed. Factors such as engine condition, refurbishment costs, military ownership, and transportation make large-scale implementation far more challenging.

Despite those limitations, the concept is based on technology already in commercial use. Several companies have successfully converted aircraft jet engines into aeroderivative gas turbines that generate electricity. These systems can be installed much faster than conventional power plants, making them attractive for rapidly expanding AI data centers.

Texas has already become an early example of this approach. Some data center operators are using modified aircraft-engine generators capable of producing up to 48 MW each while waiting for permanent grid connections. These mobile units can provide reliable on-site power during construction and the first years of operation.

According to the EIA analysis, turbofan engines offer the largest opportunity, accounting for roughly 32 GW of the estimated capacity. Their design is closely related to modern aeroderivative gas turbines already used by utilities and industrial facilities, making them the most practical candidates for conversion.

Other retired military engines could also contribute. Turboshaft engines from helicopters are estimated to provide around 1,600 MW, while turboprop engines used on aircraft such as the C-130 Hercules could add approximately 7,300 MW. However, their smaller size and higher conversion costs may reduce their commercial appeal.

Experts caution that many of the stored engines have been sitting in Arizona’s desert for more than a decade. Each engine would require inspection, refurbishment, fuel-system modifications, and integration with commercial generators before producing electricity. Regulatory approvals and military operational requirements also remain significant obstacles.

Although retired military aircraft are unlikely to become a major long-term power source, the idea highlights the growing urgency of supplying electricity for AI infrastructure. As demand for computing power continues to climb, repurposed aircraft engines could serve as a niche but innovative backup solution while new power plants, transmission lines, and other energy projects are built.

Sources:

• U.S. Energy Information Administration
• 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group