WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) today announced the commissioning of the Abramovo Counterterrorism Training Center (ACTC). Located in the city of Abramovo, the ACTC will be used by the Russian Ministry of Defense (RF MOD) to train personnel for Russia’s nuclear sites in security tactics and measures. This will allow RF MOD to assure a new level of nuclear material protection against terrorist threats. This center was built in joint partnership with NNSA, the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada, and the Russian Federation Ministry of Defense.

“The United States, Canada and Russia all recognize the critical need to ensure that the forces responsible for responding to emergency situations involving nuclear weapons and weapons useable materials have the highest levels of training and preparedness,” said NNSA Principal Deputy Administrator Neile Miller.“This partnership between our countries contributes to implementation of the international commitments made at the Nuclear Security Summit and advances President Obama’s nuclear security agenda. Together, our nations are working to make the world a safer place.”

Creation of the ACTC includes constructing and equipping a new facility, renovating existing buildings and other infrastructure improvements. The central element of the ACTC is the “Autodrome” – a road along which various mock terrorist events can be staged to challenge RF MOD personnel in realistic and dynamic nuclear weapons transport and response scenarios.

The ACTC is an integral component of the training system developed by RF MOD. The center will provide training for the Russian Navy, Strategic Rocket Forces and the 12th Main Directorate in the areas of secure storage and transportation of nuclear weapons, and in countering extremist tactics.

NNSA’s work at ACTC is conducted by NNSA’s Office of International Materials Protection and Cooperation (IMPC), which works in Russia and other countries to secure and eliminate weapons-usable material and develop sustainable infrastructure.

For more information on the NNSA’s IMPC program, click here.

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Established by Congress in 2000, NNSA is a semi-autonomous agency within the U.S. Department of Energy responsible for enhancing national security through the military application of nuclear science. NNSA maintains and enhances the safety, security, reliability and performance of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile without nuclear testing; works to reduce global danger from weapons of mass destruction; provides the U.S. Navy with safe and effective nuclear propulsion; and responds to nuclear and radiological emergencies in the U.S. and abroad.