The National Nuclear Security Administration of the United States has given the green light to upgrade the B61 airborne nuclear bomb, as the Pentagon is keen to start a multi-billion-dollar nuclear warhead advancement project.
The first version of B61 was commissioned in 1968, since then it has been the principle airborne nuclear bomb. NNSA Administrator Lt. Gen. Frank G. Klotz (Ret.) told in a statement that “Reaching this next phase of the B61-12 LEP is a major achievement for NNSA and the exceptionally talented scientists and engineers whose work underpins this vital national security mission,”.
He further noted that “Currently, the B61 contains the oldest components in the US arsenal. This LEP (life extension program) will add at least an additional 20 years to the life of the system”.
According to Secretary of Energy Ernest, “These life extension programs directly support President Obama’s directive to maintain a safe, secure, and effective nuclear deterrent, while reducing the size of the stockpile,”.