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New weapons system deployed
ROWS is shown during operations at the Central Training Facility.
The first automated security weapons system within DOE’s Nuclear Weapons Complex has been deployed at Y‑12. The use of the technology provides a significant enhancement to Y‑12’s security.
The new system, known as the Remotely Operated Weapon System (ROWS), is an automated weapons platform used to protect special nuclear materials at Y‑12. The system is operated by a security police officer stationed in a remote location using video cameras and electronic controls.
Jerry Paul, principal deputy administrator of NNSA, said, “The application of new technology is an essential part of our plan to provide the security necessary to protect important national assets such as Y‑12.
“We are very pleased with the deployment of this technology, which dramatically increases the security of sensitive facilities at Y‑12. We expect that this and other security-related technologies also will be applied to other key nuclear weapons production and research facilities across the nation.”
Paul recently visited Oak Ridge to participate in tours and briefings on Y‑12 projects, missions, modernization and nuclear nonproliferation activities.
In his remarks at a demonstration of ROWS at the Oak Ridge Central Training Facility, Paul noted that the application of new technologies reflects an innovative and aggressive approach to security. “Y‑12 and other NNSA facilities across the country have made dramatic improvements in safeguards and security. We are very pleased with the results of the recent assessment of security at Y‑12 that was performed by the DOE Office of Independent Oversight and Performance Assurance.”
ROWS was developed by Sandia National Laboratories in New Mexico. Wackenhut, Y‑12 and the NNSA Y‑12 Site Office coordinated deployment of the system.