US completes key components for B61-13 nuclear bombs seven months early

September 22, 2026 at 09:35 AM2 min

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The US National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) completed production of key components for the final B61-13 nuclear gravity bombs at the Y-12 complex in Tennessee seven months ahead of schedule. The last component was certified for use in the US nuclear arsenal on September 1. The first B61-13 was assembled in May 2025, nearly a year earlier than originally planned.

Key Facts

The last component for the B61-13 was certified on September 1 at the Y-12 complex in Tennessee.
Production of key components finished seven months ahead of schedule.
The first B61-13 was assembled in May 2025, nearly a year earlier than originally planned.
The B61-13 uses safety, security, and accuracy systems from the B61-12 but has higher yield.
The bomb is intended for use by strategic bombers and will be based in the continental United States.

Production Milestones

The Y-12 National Security Complex in Tennessee completed work on key components for the B61-13 seven months ahead of schedule. The final component was certified for use in the US nuclear arsenal on September 1. The first B61-13 was assembled in May 2025, nearly a year earlier than the original timeline. The program has now moved to its final production phase.

Bomb Design and Deployment

The B61-13 is a new modification of the US nuclear gravity bomb family, using safety, security, and accuracy systems from the B61-12 but with higher yield. It is designed to strike hardened and large-area military targets. The bomb is planned for use by strategic bombers and will be deployed at bases in the continental United States.

Modernization Context

Production of the B61-13 is part of a large-scale modernization program for the US nuclear arsenal. The program updates existing munitions, delivery systems, and production infrastructure. The Y-12 complex is a key facility in the US nuclear industry, manufacturing components for the B61-13. The US does not disclose all production parameters, including total output and detailed delivery schedules, for security reasons.