The US has allocated $2 billion to create a new nuclear warhead

The US Department of Defence has signed a contract with Lockheed Martin Space worth more than $2 billion for the production and support of Trident II D5 missiles, as well as the development of new W93 and Mk7 nuclear warheads.

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In addition to the United States, the work will also be carried out in the interests of the United Kingdom. The contract is scheduled to end by 30 September 2029.

According to the UK Defence Journal, this contract also makes an important contribution to the UK's new warhead development programme, which will replace the outdated Mk4/A warhead.

This development is a key part of the UK's nuclear deterrent programme. It is closely linked to the development of the new Astraea warhead, or known as the A21/Mk7. The new warhead is to replace the Mk4/A, which has been in service since 1994 and has American roots, based on the W76 design.

Mk4/A warheads are used on the UK's Vanguard class submarines fitted with Trident II D5 missiles, which are the only nuclear forces currently deployed in the UK.

The UK Ministry of Defence has stated that the replacement warheads will ensure the modernity, safety and effectiveness of its nuclear arsenal.

It is worth noting that in April 2024, the United States announced that for the first time in 40 years it would begin producing new nuclear warheads. These warheads are being developed at the Los Alamos National Laboratory. To speed up the process and reduce costs, the new warheads will be based on proven technologies from previous models.

Source: US Department of Defence