Overview
- Chris Wright said on Fox News the planned activities are system tests with noncritical explosions and no nuclear detonations.
- He explained the work will evaluate non-nuclear components to ensure proper geometry and function, with no mushroom clouds expected in Nevada.
- Wright said the focus is on new systems to make replacement warheads more reliable under all conditions, leveraging modern simulations.
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the Pentagon is moving quickly on the directive and coordinating with the Department of Energy to maintain a credible deterrent.
- Russia warned it would respond if the U.S. abandons the moratorium, while the U.S. has not conducted an explosive nuclear test since 1992 and remains a CTBT signatory without ratification.