DoD Inspector General's Office Evaluates U.S.A.F.’s Nuclear Design Certification for Aircraft Carrying B61-12 Nuclear Bomb

Inspector General Robert P. Storch announced the release of a comprehensive evaluation report evaluating the U.S. Air Force's compliance with nuclear design certification requirements for the F-15E, B-2, and F-35A aircraft to carry the B61-12 nuclear bomb.

According to the report, the Air Force demonstrated compliance with Nuclear Design Certification requirements for these aircraft types. However, the evaluation highlighted potential improvements in the Air Force's Independent Verification and Validation (IV&V) processes to ensure greater independence and accuracy in nuclear weapon certification procedures.

Inspector General Storch emphasized that "without clear and detailed guidance on conducting and documenting IV&V for such critical certifications, the Air Force risks incorrect certification of current or future aircraft intended to carry nuclear weapons."

As part of the evaluation's recommendations, the Air Force Chief of Safety will collaborate with the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center Commander to update the Air Force Manual (AFMAN) 91-119, “Safety Design Criteria for Nuclear Weapons Systems Software” (March 2020). The updates will focus on enhancing the clarity and specificity of IV&V requirements, including guidance on selecting independent verification organizations (IVO) and ensuring their independence during IV&V processes. Additionally, the revised manual will address protocols for utilizing prime contractors' laboratory facilities, equipment, and software during IV&V when government assets are unavailable.

The DoD OIG will closely monitor the implementation progress of these recommendations to ensure the Air Force enhances its nuclear certification processes effectively.