OAK RIDGE, Tenn. – The Y-12 National Security Complex (Y-12) recently completed Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 uranium castings for Naval Reactors ahead of schedule and under budget. This achievement ensures the continuous supply of vital enriched uranium feedstock for the U.S. Navy’s nuclear-powered ships, a cornerstone of America’s defense capabilities.
“The Y-12 team continually delivers for Naval Reactors. Completing all castings this early in the fiscal year positions the site to be able to enter FY 2027 in a strong position for this program,” National Nuclear Security Administration Y-12 Field Office Manager Mary Helen Hitson said.
Success requires teamwork
Y-12 completed 175 castings for Naval Reactors this fiscal year. This success was the result of collaboration among multiple site organizations. The teams worked together to ensure material was ready for casting and performed all required lab chemistry analyses ahead of schedule.
“This team consistently meets the Naval Reactors casting scope early and pushes to complete it earlier every year. Our commitment is to deliver as promised, ensuring our Nuclear Navy has the fuel it needs to keep America safe,” Consolidated Nuclear Security President and CEO Rich Tighe said. CNS is NNSA’s management and operating contractor at Y-12.
This accomplishment underscores Y-12’s important role in maintaining the operational readiness of the U.S. Navy and its broader contributions to national and international security.