Role & Authority

Much of the NNSA’s regulatory authority is derived from the DOE’s broader authority, rather than being explicitly separate. The NNSA implements DOE regulations within its specific areas of responsibility. The extension of that authority through the NNSA is concentrated on specific areas related to nuclear security, primarily:

• Maintaining the safety, security, and effectiveness of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile
• Reducing the global danger from WMDs
• Providing the U.S. Navy with safe and effective nuclear propulsion

Budget

FY 2025 Changes related to AI and cybersecurity:

• Nonproliferation Efforts
  • Expansion of counter nuclear smuggling engagement
  • Development of AI systems for remote and space sensing capabilities

Programs

The Nuclear Counterterrorism and Incident Response Program (NCTIR): The CTCP subprogram develop expertise to counter nuclear threats, including improvised devices and lost foreign weapons. This informs government policies and DoD planning. The program manages the Nuclear Emergency Support Team (NEST) for incident response and maintains nuclear forensics capabilities. CTCP works to understand how AI impacts the nuclear threat landscape through red teaming. It builds international partnerships and integrates DOE/NNSA counterproliferation efforts.

The Nonproliferation and Arms Control: The NPAC programs focus on preventing the exploitation of nuclear and dual-use technologies by adversaries, with particular attention to identifying and mitigating emerging technologies of proliferation concern. This includes advancing the Arms Control Advancement Initiative (ACAI) and its high-fidelity verification facility, as well as strategies to address emerging threats.

Resources

https://docs.house.gov/meetings/AS/AS00/20240522/117296/BILLS-118HR8070ih-U1.pdf