stockpile

The Highly Enriched Uranium Materials Facility is our nation’s central repository for highly enriched uranium, a vital national security asset.

Y-12’s Surveillance and Quality Evaluation Program assesses the integrity and life expectancy of the stockpile through surveillance and evaluation of weapon components and assemblies. Random samples from the stockpile are removed yearly and returned to Y-12 for precise forensics to evaluate life expectancies. Data from surveillance is used to determine weapon systems that might be candidates for a Life Extension Program.

Through Life Extension Program activities, Y-12 produces refurbished, replaced and/or upgraded weapons components for modernizing the enduring stockpile. We are an integral part of NNSA's work to extend the life of key weapons systems in the U.S. arsenal, at a time when the nation is not building new weapons.

The Weapons Dismantlement and Disposition Program receives, dismantles and dispositions retired weapon components and subassemblies from the stockpile. As the nation reduces the size of its arsenal, Y-12 is playing a central role in decommissioning weapons systems and providing materials for peaceful uses.

The President and Congress have directed the National Nuclear Security Administration/Department of Energy to maintain the safety and reliability of the nation's nuclear deterrent without underground nuclear testing. In order to do that, DOE has established a program of science-based stockpile stewardship. Y-12 is an integral part of that mission.

We execute stewardship through refurbishment, dismantlement and surveillance of weapons in the nuclear stockpile.