Nuclear Certification Management
Abstract
This effort conducts nuclear certification activities that were previously contained in this program element, under project 654236, Engineering Analysis, prior to FY23. This funding is for statutory and regulatory (DoD and AF) nuclear enterprise-wide nuclear certification activities by AFNWC. It is distinct from, but complemented by, the funding identified by specific nuclear weapons programs (e.g., B-21, LGM-35A Sentinel, F-35A, F-15E, etc.) for their roles, responsibilities, and authorities in nuclear certification, as segregated and directed by the same regulations (DODM 5210.41M and AFI 63-125). By DoD mandate, AFNWC provides an external (independent of program office) review of a weapon system's nuclear safety and surety features, eventually certifying the weapon system and its operational employment procedures. Nuclear certification activities include independent AF technical reviews, evaluations, and analyses for nuclear safety themes, employment procedures, delivery systems (warhead and/or carrier platforms, subsystems, or components), support equipment, software, and facilities that handle, maintain, or operate nuclear weapons or nuclear weapon systems to ensure compliance with national, DoD, and AF guidance. AFNWC's scope includes overall management of the entire nuclear certification process for the AF, as well as the execution of testing and evaluations to achieve compatibility certification, nuclear safety design, weapon system safety rules, and validated technical orders & functions (e.g., security) involving personnel and organizations assigned to perform nuclear missions. The objective of this project is focused on new nuclear weapon system acquisition programs, as well as fielded system sustainment, modifications, and upgrades. This project will manage the flow of nuclear certification activities and provide certification data to all stakeholders via the Nuclear Certification Analysis Tool (NCAT). Examples include certification requirements plans, Aircraft Monitor and Control (AMAC) certification, consequence analyses, qualitative and quantitative hazard evaluations, and technical design analysis.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2025
- Source ID
- 0ccba2eca3f37cadc9cbd71f55d5cdaf
Related Documents
- Root: Nuclear Weapons Support