The United States has accelerated production of its B61-13 nuclear bomb, citing a “critical challenge and urgent need,” according to a statement from Sandia National Laboratories. The powerful warhead, with a yield of 360 kilotons—24 times stronger than the bomb dropped on Hiroshima—was completed seven months ahead of schedule.
Sandia credited “innovative program planning” and coordination with the U.S. Air Force, Los Alamos National Laboratory, and the National Nuclear Security Administration for the expedited timeline.
The Department of Defense said the B61-13 provides the president with more options to target “harder and large-area military targets,” and strengthens deterrence in a shifting global security landscape.
Production of the bomb began under the Biden administration. However, the Federation of American Scientists has questioned the justification, noting the administration said the new weapon was not tied to immediate developments in China, Russia, or other adversaries.
The Pentagon has emphasized the need to adapt U.S. capabilities to evolving threats to maintain credible deterrence.
Sources
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