life extension

It’s a go—B61-12 LEP

  • Posted: Thursday, October 4, 2018, 2:44 pm

B61-12 Life extension poster

It’s a go.

Y-12 recently received the Qualification Evaluation Release for the B61-12 Life Extension Program canned subassembly. Receiving this QER was the final step to authorize CNS to begin manufacturing and delivery of the program’s first production unit, scheduled for March 2019.

Surveillance

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.

Refurbishment

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.