Science, Engineering and Technology is integral to AWE’s ability to deliver the UK’s requirements for nuclear warheads, and to support national security.
AWE’s sophisticated scientific and technological capabilities enable the design and production of nuclear warheads that are performance assured and include stringent safeguards.
The maintenance of Trident, and the capability to produce a successor should it be required, must be done without actual nuclear testing. The UK’s ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty prohibits any test – be it underground, underwater, in the atmosphere or in space – that produces a nuclear yield.
Therefore, AWE is developing methods of verifying the safety and reliability of nuclear warheads through a truly science-based programme.
The breadth and depth of our science, engineering and technology is impressive, and includes several key areas that are central to AWE’s work. These are: Plasma Physics, Design Physics, Supercomputing, Hydrodynamics, Materials Science, Systems Engineering, and Manufacturing.
We also provide crucial support to National Nuclear Security. This integrated programme provides a number of important capabilities to the Government, including nuclear intelligence, arms control verification research, forensic seismology and, crisis and consequence management.
Plus, our Technical Outreach Programme is at the core of developing our relationship with the UK’s science, engineering and technology community. Through our links with institutions such universities, professional bodies and government agencies, we build and share knowledge for mutual benefit.
Further information on each of these areas can be found using these links or the drop-down menu.