The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) has announced the completion of the $9-billion life extension program for the US military’s B61-12 nuclear warheads.
Known as “gravity bombs,” the warheads have been in service for over 50 years, making them the oldest in the US nuclear arsenal.
The upgrade extends the service life of the weapons by at least 20 years while enhancing safety, security, and reliability.
“Completing the B61-12 on schedule is the latest example of what we’ve been saying for several years now: NNSA is delivering capabilities at the pace and scale needed by our Department of Defense partners and our deterrence requirements,” NNSA Administrator Jill Hruby explained.
The B61 gravity bombs are deployed at US Air Force and NATO bases.
About the B61-12
The B61-12 is designed to provide the US military with a modern, air-delivered nuclear deterrent capability.
Weighing approximately 825 pounds (374 kilograms), the weapon uses an inertial navigation system for high kill probability.
Its tail features four maneuverable fins, offering enhanced accuracy and stand-off capability.
The warhead received formal production clearance in 2021 — more than 17 years after design and development began.
In March 2024, the US cleared the F-35A Joint Strike Fighter aircraft to carry two B61-12 bombs, making it the first fifth-generation jet authorized for this mission.
With the B61-12 upgrade now complete, the NNSA will focus on producing a more advanced variant, the B61-13.