ICBM FUZE MOD

The ICBM Fuze Modernization program is focused on designing and producing a replacement for the current Mk21 fuze, aiming for a 20-year threshold and a 30-year objective design life. This initiative addresses the shortfall in available Mk21/W87-0 fuze quantities, which do not currently meet United States Strategic Command requirements. The program's objectives include modifications to the Minuteman III weapon system, system testing, and providing support and training for the new Mk21 replacement fuze alongside the W87-0 warhead.

A key goal of the program is to transition from Low Rate Initial Production units, procured between FY2022 and FY2024, to Full Rate Production by the third quarter of FY2024. This transition is crucial for meeting operational requirements validated by the Joint Requirements Oversight Council. The program also involves procuring critical components such as Application Specific Integrated Circuits, Heterojunction Bipolar Transistors, and power sources through a Life of Type Buy strategy in FY2025, coordinated with the Department of Energy National Nuclear Security Administration.

Advance procurement authority is essential for acquiring long-lead items like Model XI sensor hardware and various connectors and assemblies. These components are vital for maintaining the production schedule established in FY20. Without this authority, there would be significant delays in fuze production and fielding activities. The advance procurement strategy ensures timely delivery of fuzes, aligning with DOE/NNSA's production commitments.

The program's milestones include completing Phase 6.4 Production Engineering by FY2024 and entering Phase 6.5 First Production within the same fiscal year. Initial Operational Test & Evaluation is planned for January 2025, following several successful flight tests conducted between FY2019 and FY2022. The program continues to align its processes with joint Department of Defense - Department of Energy Phase 6.X procedures to ensure consistency across related nuclear stockpile activities.