B61-12 Nuclear Bomb

Manufacturer: Los Alamos National Laboratory
Category: Missiles & Precision Weapons
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Guidance System GPS / INS with Tail Kit Assembly
Maximum Speed Mach 0.7 – free-fall
Launch Compatibility F-35, F-15E, B-2 Spirit
Warhead Technology Variable-yield nuclear, Insensitive high explosive

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name / Designation	B61-12
Type / Role	Tactical / Strategic Nuclear Bomb
Country of Origin	United States
Manufacturer	Los Alamos National Laboratory / NNSA
Service Entry / Year Introduced	2020 (Modernized version)
Operational Status	Active

2. Performance & Range

Range	Air-delivered, dependent on aircraft platform
Speed	Subsonic (free-fall)
Ceiling / Altitude Limit	High and low-altitude deployment possible
Accuracy (CEP)	<30 meters with TKA
Warhead Type	Variable-yield nuclear

3. Guidance & Targeting

Guidance System	GPS / INS with Tail Kit Assembly
Targeting Mode	Precision-guided free-fall
Launch Platform Compatibility	F-35, F-15E, B-2 Spirit
Seeker Type	N/A (guided by inertial/GPS systems)

4. Physical Characteristics

Length	3.56 m
Diameter	0.33 m
Wingspan	0.31 m
Launch Weight	340 kg
Propulsion	Free-fall gravity bomb

5. Warhead & Payload

Warhead Weight	170–340 kg variable yield
Explosive Type	Nuclear, insensitive high explosive
Detonation Mechanism	Airburst or ground impact
Payload Options	Tactical / Strategic nuclear

6. Operational Use & Capabilities

Operational Range Type	Tactical / Strategic
Deployment Platform	Air (F-35, F-15E, B-2)
Target Types	Military infrastructure, hardened facilities
Combat Proven	Not publicly tested in combat
Users / Operators	United States

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

Technology 8 / 10
Performance 8 / 10
Maintenance Efficiency 8 / 10
Range & Endurance 8 / 10

PROS

High-precision targeting with Tail Kit Assembly (TKA)
Variable yield for tactical and strategic flexibility
Compatible with multiple U.S. aircraft platforms
Reduced collateral damage due to guided delivery
Modernized safety and handling features

CONS

Extremely high cost and classified procurement
Limited to U.S. nuclear-capable aircraft
Strategic use carries geopolitical risks
Classified operational specifics limit transparency
Maintenance and storage require specialized facilities

B61-12 Nuclear Bomb: Modern U.S. Tactical Nuclear Weapon

The B61-12 represents the latest evolution in U.S. tactical nuclear weapons, combining enhanced accuracy with flexible deployment options. Developed to modernize the Cold War-era B61 series, the B61-12 delivers a highly adaptable nuclear capability for contemporary deterrence strategies.

Manufacturer and Origin

Produced by Los Alamos National Laboratory in collaboration with National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) contractors, the B61-12 Nuclear Bomb originates from the United States and is designed for strategic modernization while maintaining operational reliability.

Purpose and Operational Use

The B61-12 serves as a tactical and strategic nuclear bomb intended for deployment from a range of aircraft, including the F-35 Lightning II, F-15E Strike Eagle, and B-2 Spirit bombers. Its primary role is precision strike and deterrence, offering adjustable yield options from low to high megaton equivalents. The weapon’s modular design enhances survivability and operational flexibility.

Major Capabilities

Equipped with a guided tail kit assembly (TKA), the B61-12 achieves unprecedented accuracy, reducing collateral damage and expanding the effective target set. It can be deployed from high or low altitudes and supports both free-fall and precision-guided delivery. Its variable yield allows for tactical use without exceeding strategic requirements, positioning it as a cornerstone of modern U.S. nuclear deterrence.

With advanced insensitive high explosive technology and GPS/INS guidance, the B61-12 enhances safety, reduces handling risks, and improves strike precision. Its compatibility with a broad range of U.S. aircraft ensures rapid response in diverse combat scenarios.

B61-12 Nuclear Bomb Price in United States

The B61-12 is part of a U.S. government program; pricing is classified. However, modernization and production costs are estimated in the billions of dollars, reflecting investment in cutting-edge nuclear safety, guidance, and precision technology.

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