The Weapons Storage and Security System (WS3): Alternate Approach to Secure Storage of Nuclear Material

The Weapons Storage and Security System (WS^) was developed as a unique concept in tactical weapons storage. The system is replacing the older method of storing special weapons in a remote centralized weapons storage area with de-centralized storage in individual hardened vaults in proximity to the operational delivery vehicle (tactical aircraft). While the WS^ system was conceived and designed to meet specific DoD requirements for secure, dispersed storage at operational air bases, it may also be applicable to secure storage of other critical high value assets such as strategic nuclear material. This paper will discuss how one very important NATO program, which is managed by the U.S. Air Force, has survived the rigors of recent international politico-economic dynamics through management innovations and present some very interesting, and in some ways, \"startling\" new opportunities for special hi-value resource storage and protection.