National Technical Nuclear Forensics
Abstract
Per NSPM 35, the DoD leads the USG post-detonation NTNF capability. Per DoDD S-2060.04, OUSD(A&S) is the DoD office responsible for DoD’s NTNF capabilities. This program is the only DoD RDT&E program focused on System Development & Demonstration for NTNF capabilities. Collecting and analyzing post-detonation debris is critical to ensure the USG can identify the source of nuclear material and hold those involved or supporting an attack accountable is critical to our national defense and security. Swift and accurate forensic and attribution (identification) capabilities are vital to supporting the President and Secretary of Defense in developing an appropriate, and timely, national response to a nuclear event and to prevent future attacks. An effective NTNF capability ensures potential adversaries, or those who support them, know that they will be held accountable if they use proxies or other non-traditional delivery (e.g., false-flag operations) of nuclear weapons against the U.S., U.S. interests, or allies. Both internal and independent studies indicate that continued improvement to the USG's NTNF capabilities is needed to sustain a credible deterrent against an attempted or actual nuclear attack. Additionally, this program sustains perishable U.S. technical expertise at the operational DoD laboratories required to respond to a post-detonation NTNF event. The DoD's laboratory capability in this area is limited by capacity and technical expertise. Increased support of the DoD’s NTNF mission is crucial to prevent attrition of current capabilities and knowledge base, ensure that this critical and unique deterrence capability is not lost, putting the security of the nation and the ability to deter specific kinds of nuclear attack at risk, and meeting a higher standard of timeliness and confidence as directed. This PE can fund travel to support the requirements of this program.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2025
- Source ID
- 042_0604161D8Z_5_0400_PB_2025
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