scope:

Scope and Applicability.

This instruction provides safety guidance pertaining to all nuclear weapons and the nuclear weapons system for which the DON has operational, custodial or developmental responsibility. It also focuses on the accountability and responsibility of nuclear capable operating units and nuclear weapon system safety, security, control and reliability. Specific emphasis is placed on aggressively implementing and completing corrective actions when deficiencies are identified. References (c) and (d) define policy, responsibilities and authorities for the safe, secure and reliable stewardship of DON nuclear weapons and the nuclear weapons system. This instruction applies to all United States (U.S.) Navy commands, activities, units and forces having responsibility for custody, operations, life cycle support, development, acquisition or security of nuclear weapons or the nuclear weapons system.

Purpose.

To implement the Department of Defense (DoD) Nuclear Weapon System Safety Program (NWSSP) described in reference (a) as required by reference (b) and to issue the overarching guidance for the Department of the Navy (DON) NWSSP per all applicable instructions, directives and procedures found in references (c) through (v) and enclosures (2) through (8). This instruction incorporates changes from reference (d), including the implementation of responsibility support for the Director, Naval Nuclear Weapons Program (CNO (N00NW)) and updated responsibilities for Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Warfare Systems (CNO (N9)) and Director, Strategic Systems Programs (DIRSSP). It has also been updated to reflect the requirements in OPNAV M-5215.1, Navy Directives Management Program Manual. This instruction has been substantially revised and should be reviewed in its entirety.