Weapons Storage and Security System

Weapons Storage and Security System
Name	Weapons Storage and Security System
Type	Nuclear weapon storage and security system
Origin	United States
Used by	United States Air Force, NATO allies
Designer	Sandia National Laboratories

Weapons Storage and Security System. It is a sophisticated family of vaults, containers, and monitoring systems designed for the secure storage of nuclear weapons, primarily thermonuclear weapons like the B61 nuclear bomb. Developed during the Cold War by Sandia National Laboratories for the United States Air Force, these systems are a critical component of the Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications infrastructure. Their primary function is to prevent unauthorized access, use, or removal of nuclear weapons while ensuring rapid availability for authorized forces under strict protocols.

Overview

The genesis of the system lies in the need to enhance the physical security of tactical nuclear weapons deployed with forward-based units, particularly in Europe under NATO nuclear sharing arrangements. Prior systems were vulnerable to threats ranging from terrorism to special forces raids. The implementation of these systems represented a significant shift, moving storage from simple igloos at locations like RAF Lakenheath to highly engineered facilities. This evolution was driven by Presidential Directives and requirements from the United States Department of Defense to meet stringent Permissive Action Link and Two-man rule safety standards. The development involved key agencies including the Defense Nuclear Agency and the Department of Energy.

Design and Components

The system's architecture typically involves a Weapons Storage Vault, a hardened underground or semi-underground structure constructed with massive reinforced concrete and blast doors. Within the vault, individual weapons are housed in dedicated Storage Containers or cradles, which are themselves secure units. The design integrates with the Aircraft Monitoring and Control system used on aircraft like the F-15E Strike Eagle and F-16 Fighting Falcon. Critical electronic components include the Command Disable System, which can render a weapon inoperable, and interfaces for the B61 nuclear bomb's Category F PAL. The entire apparatus is supported by redundant power systems and environmental controls to maintain weapon viability.

Security Features

Security is multi-layered, employing a concept known as Delay, Deny, Detect, and Respond. Physical barriers provide substantial delay against intrusion attempts. The vaults are protected by sophisticated sensors, including Intrusion detection systems, seismic monitors, and closed-circuit television linked to on-site Security Forces and often the Office of Special Investigations. Access is controlled by complex cipher locks and requires compliance with the Two-man rule, where no single individual can gain entry. The systems are designed to withstand attacks from insurgents, sabotage, and natural disasters, ensuring continuity of operations.

Deployment and Locations

These systems are deployed at numerous United States Air Force and NATO bases across Europe and other strategic regions. Key operational locations have included Volkel Air Base in the Netherlands, Kleine Brogel Air Base in Belgium, Büchel Air Base in Germany, and Ghedi Air Base in Italy. Other significant sites are Incirlik Air Base in Turkey and Aviano Air Base in Italy. In the United States, storage facilities at bases like Minot Air Force Base and Whiteman Air Force Base also utilize advanced security systems. The deployment is coordinated through United States European Command and is a visible element of the Nuclear sharing policy.

Operational History

The systems were first fielded in the late 1970s and early 1980s, a period marked by heightened tensions during the Second Cold War. They have undergone continuous upgrades, such as the WS3 Video Assessment System, to counter evolving threats. The systems proved their logistical value during operations like Desert Storm, where nuclear weapons security remained a paramount concern. Incidents, such as the 2007 United States Air Force nuclear weapons incident at Minot Air Force Base, highlighted the critical importance of procedural control alongside physical security. Their presence has been a point of discussion in arms control forums and treaties, including the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.

Related Systems

Similar secure storage technologies are used for other strategic assets. The Strategic Automated Command and Control System manages communication links for these sites. For intercontinental ballistic missiles, the Launch Control Center and Missile Launch Facility (such as those for the LGM-30 Minuteman) incorporate comparable security philosophies. The Royal Air Force employs its own systems for the Trident (UK nuclear programme), while other nuclear powers like Russia and China maintain analogous facilities. Research into next-generation security continues at national laboratories like Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and under programs like the Stockpile Stewardship Program.

Category:Nuclear weapons of the United States Category:United States Air Force Category:Nuclear weapons infrastructure