Missions

With more than 60 years of experience to draw from, Y‑12 is uniquely qualified to address the existing and emerging security challenges facing our nation and the world today. Operated by B&W Y‑12 for the National Nuclear Security Administration NNSA within the Department of Energy, Y‑12 is a one-of-a-kind manufacturing facility that plays an integral role in DOE’s Nuclear Weapons Complex.

In this role, Y‑12 provides critical elements of NNSA’s missions that ensure the safety, reliability and performance of the U.S. nuclear weapons deterrent. Y‑12 also uses its unique capabilities to support the Research Reactors Programs for U.S. and international customers, other federal agencies, such as the Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security, state and local governments, and private-sector companies.

We focus our efforts in four strategic areas that ultimately help make the world a safer place.

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  Defense Programs
  Y-12 employs unique processes and technologies to help safeguard and support the nation’s nuclear defense.

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  Nuclear Nonproliferation
  We secure nuclear materials out of harm’s way, such as the surrendered Libyan materials.

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  Naval Reactors
  Y-12 supplies the U.S. Navy with feedstock material for fabrication of reactor fuel.

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  Complementary Work
  We apply our specialized skill and expertise to other missions of national interest.