F-15E OT322

The F-15E OT322 taxis in preparation for takeoff. An inert version of the upgraded B61 nuclear weapon was released it from the aircraft over the Nellis Test and Training Range Complex. The B61 is in the process of a life-extension program, which includes upgrading aging components and a new tail kit assembly. (Courtesy photo)

Release milestone accomplished in Nevada desert as B61 upgrade progresses

Published July 7, 2015
By Kirtland Public Affairs

KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- The Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center, in conjunction with the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center and the Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration, conducted an inert developmental flight test of the upgraded B61 or B61-12 nuclear bomb July 1 from Nellis AFB, Nev.

An interagency team from these mission partners tested an inert version of the upgraded weapon system and released it from an Air Force aircraft over the Nellis Test and Training Range Complex. The B61 is in the process of a life-extension program, which includes upgrading aging components and a new tail kit assembly. When the program is completed, the B61-12 will replace four different B61 variants in the inventory.