WASHINGTON (Agencies): The Department of Defense (DoD) Office of Inspector General (OIG) has announced that the B-2 Stealth Bomber, the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, and the F-15 Eagle aircraft have been authorized to carry and deliver the new B-61 nuclear bombs.
The OIG evaluated the Air Force’s nuclear design certification for the F-15E, B-2, and F-35A aircraft to carry the B61-12 nuclear bomb, ensuring compliance with DoD and Air Force requirements.
The OIG confirmed that the Air Force met the Nuclear Design Certification requirements for these aircraft to carry the B61-12 nuclear bomb, in line with Defense Department and Air Force standards.
However, the report also noted that the Air Force’s Independent Verification and Validation processes could benefit from more detailed guidance to ensure independence.