Sandia National Laboratories has announced the early completion of the first production unit of the B61-13 gravity bomb, achieved approximately a year ahead of schedule. This milestone highlights the effective collaboration within the U.S. nuclear security network. Sandia, serving as the systems integrator and nonnuclear component design lead, leveraged its experience from the B61-12 program, which wrapped up production in late 2024.
The assembly of the first B61-13 unit at the Pantex Plant in May came just 13 months after Congress approved program funding. Advanced planning, early hardware deliveries from key partners such as Y-12 and the Kansas City National Security Campus, and the transfer of seasoned personnel from the B61-12 effort all contributed to the accelerated timeline.
Although the program officially launched in April 2024, Sandia and its collaborators began preparatory studies as early as 2022, providing a strategic advantage in schedule execution. The project emphasized innovation and creative problem-solving to ensure responsible early delivery.
In a May ceremony at Pantex, Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright performed the diamond stamping of the first production unit, signaling its readiness for deployment. The B61-13 is designed to deliver a higher yield than its predecessor while retaining the advanced safety, security, and accuracy of the B61-12. The total stockpile will remain unchanged, as B61-13 production will offset part of the B61-12 build. The program now shifts to design reviews and full-rate production.
