DOE Defense Critical Technologies Plan, 1992

摘要

The purpose of the Department of Energy's Defense Critical Technologies Plan is twofold: (1) to describe the technologies considered essential for maintaining confidence in the US nuclear deterrent and our ability to respond to nuclear threats, and (2) to outline a science and technology investment strategy to manage and develop these technologies in the political environment of a rapidly changing world. The Plan distinguishes between ''Core Competencies'' and ''Critical Technologies.'' Science and technology efforts that comprise the nuclear weapon Core Competencies are fundamental to achieving continued confidence in the current stockpile and to improving the reliability, safety, security, and durability of our nuclear weapons deterrence. They also impact the manufacturing techniques of future nuclear weapons, which must focus on placing minimal stress on the environment and on worker health and safety. The Critical Technologies are the leading edge of the DOE defense research and advanced technology program. These Critical Technologies are likely to set the pace of US capability in the design, production, and maintenance of our strategic nuclear weapons stockpile. They sustain, in addition, other DOE missions that impact national defense, such as verification, arms control, and nonproliferation.