ABQ Times

Sandia National Laboratories holds a vital position within the nuclear security enterprise as the lead systems integrator for the nuclear weapons program. This role ensures that the weapon's various components and delivery systems operate seamlessly and meet all performance requirements. The lab's role spans a weapon's entire lifespan, involving collaboration with other labs and agencies.

Laura McGill, the deputy Labs director for Nuclear Deterrence and chief technology officer, explained, "Sandia has the responsibility to establish clearly defined system interfaces so that subsystems will interact as expected and function as designed." Sandia collaborates with design agencies like Lawrence Livermore and Los Alamos National Laboratories to create requirements balanced with military needs.

Despite not holding design authority for nuclear explosive packages, Sandia ensures critical decisions are made promptly to prevent delays. "The role of lead systems integrator doesn’t mean we make all the decisions. Our responsibility is to ensure that key decisions are anticipated and get made when needed," McGill added.

The integrator role is significant amid current pressures on the nuclear security enterprise's capacity. Sandia's strategy involves making efficient use of resources without overburdening production facilities like the Kansas City National Security Campus, which McGill highlighted: "We cannot demand excessively large quantities of development hardware… when they are already delivering at maximum rate to meet production requirements."

Sandia also focuses on the W87-1 development, which will replace the W78. Scott Lindblom, a senior manager, noted: "Sandia provides an environment for positive interactions and conversations.” A recent design review led to changes in the testing schedule, aligning with the program's goals without adding unnecessary work.

Beyond design, Sandia's role encompasses the operational sustainment phase, maintaining responsibility until a weapon is retired and dismantled. McGill noted the lab's ongoing collaboration with other labs, plants, the NNSA, and military partners to manage performance implications as systems age.

Sandia accords with the "always/never" principles to ensure nuclear systems function only when authorized. "We have the direct interface with the prime contractors that provide the delivery platforms," McGill explained, emphasizing the collaboration required to maintain vehicle performance.

The NNSA's digital engineering initiative could further streamline Sandia's integration role by enhancing communication and updates across the enterprise.