The United States has announced the start of large-scale production of the B61-13 gravity bomb, a new nuclear weapon that is part of the country’s nuclear arsenal modernization program. Manufacturing began seven months ahead of schedule.

"In response to a critical challenge and an urgent need, the B61-13 program adopted a planning approach that resulted in delivery scheduled seven months earlier than expected," stated Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) in a press release.

The project was launched in 2023 by the U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) with an estimated cost of $92 million.

𝙄𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘽𝟲𝟭-𝟭𝟯: 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙉𝙚𝙬 𝙐.𝙎. 𝙂𝙧𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙉𝙪𝙘𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝘽𝙤𝙢𝙗

The B61-13 is a gravity bomb, meaning it is dropped from aircraft rather than launched by missiles. While its name may sound like something from a sci-fi story, it is actually based on the B61-7 model but features improvements in security systems to prevent unauthorized use.

With a variable-yield warhead, the bomb can be programmed to detonate with power ranging from 10 to 360 kilotons, allowing adjustments depending on the target—whether a conventional structure or a highly resistant facility. This flexibility increases precision and reduces collateral damage.

Additionally, the B61-13 includes a guided tail kit that enhances accuracy and enables the aircraft to stay farther away from enemy defenses. Initially, it will be used by the B-2 Spirit bomber, but in the future, it will also be integrated into the new B-21 Raider stealth bomber.

Another key aspect is that the B61-13 can replace both older and newer warheads, enhancing U.S. deterrence capabilities without increasing the total number of nuclear weapons.

"The B61-13 team reprioritized qualification activities, planned tests in coordination with U.S. Air Force partners, and finalized requirements in collaboration with Los Alamos National Laboratory and the NNSA," the SNL statement added.