Nuclear and Conventional Physical Security Equipment RDT&E SDD

The Nuclear Matters, System Development & Demonstration program, managed by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, is a key element within the Department of Defense's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) budget. Its primary objective is to counter multi-domain threats, particularly those posed by China and Russia, by deterring strategic attacks against the United States, its allies, and partners. The program supports the Interim National Defense Strategic Guidance and aims to build a resilient Joint Force and defense ecosystem. It focuses on defending against weapons of mass destruction (WMD) threats and safeguarding personnel, equipment, installations, and sensitive materials from unauthorized access, espionage, sabotage, and theft.

Nuclear and Conventional Physical Security is a major line item under this program, with the Physical Security Enterprise and Analysis Program (PSEAP) leading efforts to develop and integrate physical security solutions for both nuclear and conventional environments. The PSEAP works closely with Combatant Commands and Military Services to address their specific security requirements, leveraging commonalities to avoid duplication and promote interoperability. The program advances enterprise-level RDT&E solutions to deter, detect, delay, deny, and defeat adversaries. It focuses on the transition of successful innovations to acquisition agencies and the warfighter community.

Key objectives for Nuclear and Conventional Physical Security in FY 2025 and FY 2026 include the development of counter-uncrewed systems across all domains, advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning for security applications, insider threat detection, and enhanced maritime security. The program also prioritizes detection capabilities beyond installation perimeters, network intrusion detection for physical security systems, and supply chain security for industrial base facilities and ports. Modernization efforts include replacing outdated sensors with AI-enabled systems to improve threat assessment and updating interoperability standards for future physical security technologies.

Specific product development initiatives within this line item include the Joint Expeditious Subsurface-threat Sonar Capability, Sonar Navigated Autonomous Grabber, Small Arms Point Defense, Waterside Defensive System, and tools such as the Defender Mobile Situational Awareness Tool. Investments are also directed toward artificial intelligence in support of installation operations and force protection, as well as platforms for integrated command, control, and communications (C3) and responsive defense. Test and evaluation activities focus on technologies like standoff suicide bomber detection, millimeter wave thermal testing, and gas chromatography mass spectrometry systems.

National Technical Nuclear Forensics (NTNF) is the second major line item, with its mission requirements derived from National Security Presidential Memorandum 35 (NSPM 35), the 2022 Nuclear Posture Review, and DoD Directive S-2060.04. The NTNF program is responsible for maintaining and advancing the U.S. Government's post-detonation nuclear forensics capability, which is critical for attributing the source of nuclear or radiological attacks in any environment. The Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition & Sustainment (OUSD(A&S)) leads these efforts, ensuring the capability to collect, analyze, and evaluate both air and ground samples on accelerated timelines.

Planned activities for National Technical Nuclear Forensics in FY 2025 and FY 2026 include modeling, simulation, and data development for prompt and material diagnostic requirements, conducting national-level technical demonstrations with interagency partners, and operationalizing deployed nuclear detection sensors. These efforts are designed to support swift and accurate forensic analysis, enabling timely national responses to nuclear events and deterring future attacks. The program also invests in sustaining technical expertise at operational DoD laboratories, which is essential for maintaining a credible deterrent and ensuring the U.S. can hold perpetrators of nuclear terrorism accountable.