NUCLEAR WEAPONS: National Nuclear Security Administration Needs to Better Manage Risks Associated with Modernization of Its Kansas City Plant

Abstract

Built in 1943, the Kansas City Plant (KCP)the National Nuclear Security Administrations (NNSA) primary production plant for manufacturing nonnuclear components of nuclear warheads and bombs is to be modernized because of its age and the high cost of maintenance and operation. Among other changes, NNSA plans to relocate KCP to a new facility and increase components obtained from external suppliers from about 54 to 70 percent. KCPs continued supply of these components is essential for maintaining a reliable nuclear weapons stockpile. GAO was asked to determine(1) how KCP developed plans for modernization, (2) actions KCP has taken to ensure uninterrupted production of components, and (3) actions KCP has taken to address the risks of outsourcing. GAO reviewed planning documents and met with officials from NNSA,KCP, and Sandia National Laboratories, which designs many of the components produced at KCP.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2009
Accession Number
AD1180209

Entities

People

  • Gene Aloise

Organizations

  • United States Government Accountability Office

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Weapons Technologies

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  • Best Practices
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  • Nuclear Warheads
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  • United States
  • United States Government

Fields of Study

  • Physics

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  • Defense Financial Management and Audit.
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  • Maritime and Naval Warfare Studies