Nuclear Weapons Support

The Nuclear Weapons Support program, managed by the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center at Kirtland AFB, NM, is dedicated to providing technical expertise and support for all Air Force nuclear weapons and systems. Its primary objectives include research, development, testing, and evaluation of nuclear equipment and systems. The program also conducts independent analyses to ensure the development, sustainment, interoperability, compatibility, safety, security, and reliability of weapon systems. Furthermore, it manages nuclear stockpile certification for all Air Force nuclear weapon systems.

The Engineering Analysis project within this program focuses on integrating cybersecurity into systems engineering processes through digital methodologies. It supports the lifecycle of nuclear weapon systems by performing independent analyses on development, sustainment, and safety aspects. The project also emphasizes modernizing data management and information technology to enhance the design and deployment of nuclear capabilities. Collaboration with external agencies is a key component to address cyber vulnerabilities and implement digital engineering efforts that streamline testing and analysis processes.

The Nuclear Weapon System Technology and Integration project ensures the safety and effectiveness of Air Force nuclear weapon systems through technical evaluations and modeling. This project places importance on validating nuclear safety designs and developing flight profiles for the safe delivery of nuclear weapons. It also conducts required certifications for various nuclear weapon systems as mandated by the Department of Defense. Efforts like the Air Force Nuclear Red Team assessments are included to evaluate system vulnerabilities against emerging threats.

Addressing modernization needs, the Nuclear Weapons Support project focuses on legacy systems and developing new support equipment for Air Force Global Strike Command's Weapon Generation Facilities. This involves analyzing current support equipment capabilities such as power generation and munitions handling equipment to maintain operational readiness. The project aims to develop next-generation equipment prototypes that meet evolving mission requirements while ensuring compliance with nuclear certification standards.