ICBM FUZE SUPPORT

Abstract

The ICBM Fuze Modernization Program is designing and developing a form, fit and functionally equivalent replacement for the Mk21 fuze. The legacy Mk21 fuze is three times past its design life and ongoing Mk21 fuze refurbishment does not meet Nuclear Weapon Stockpile Plan requirements. The Mk21 Reentry Vehicle and fuze will be deployed on the current Minuteman III (MM III) and future Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD). Previous plans to integrate and test the Mk21 replacement fuze with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) W78/88-1 Life Extension Program warhead were deferred. The US Air Force (USAF) will develop the Mk21 fuze utilizing the NNSA complex consisting of Sandia National Labs-California (SNL-CA), Sandia National Labs-New Mexico (SNL-NM), and Kansas City National Security Campus (KCNSC), formerly Kansas City Plant; as well as a USAF weapons system integration contractor. The ICBM Fuze Modernization program will leverage technologies, parts, components and development/production capabilities resulting from extensive fuze work performed by the US Navy (USN) and NNSA on the Mk5 Alt 370 Fuze program. Common USN & USAF fuze components include the Radar Module (RM), Thermal Battery Assembly (TBA) and Path Length Module (PLM). USN & USAF fuze components that are partially common and use common technologies include the Missile Interface and Controller Module (MICM), Launch Safety Device (LSD), Firing Set Integration Module (FSIM) and Terminal Protection Device (TPD). The ICBM Fuze Modernization Program will integrate the replacement fuze into MM III weapon system to include, support equipment, data, flight test hardware, and training materials. The program will also conduct required system testing (including ground and flight tests). The program is coordinating Mk21 fuze replacement development efforts with the DOE to synchronize USAF arming and fuze development activities with DOE warhead requirements. When prudent, the program will conduct trade studies and initiate conceptual designs to address operational system issues and meet future requirements. As a cooperative USAF, USN and NNSA acquisition, the USAF is executing the program using Department of Defense (DoD)-DOE Instruction 5030.55 Joint Nuclear Weapons Life Cycle Activities (Phase 6.X process) while meeting Major Defense Acquisition Program (MDAP) statutory requirements. The FY18 budget request continues cooperative efforts with the USN to leverage common components; continues design efforts for AF unique components; and continues development of lab, ground and flight test assets. This program also includes any needed nuclear surety and certification and system vulnerability assessments. This program is in Budget Activity 5, System Development and Demonstration (SDD), and continues to execute Phase 6.3 "Development Engineering" of the 6.X process. The program is conducting engineering development tasks aimed at meeting validated requirements prior to Phase 6.4 "Production Engineering", scheduled for FY19 (Objective).

Document Details

• Document Type: Project
• Publication Date: Oct 01, 2018
• Source ID: 655082_0604933F_5_3600_PB_2018

Tags

Readers

• Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
• Missile Defense Systems.
• Naval Mine Countermeasure Systems Development.