Extraordinary engineering

Whether working directly on the warhead programme or providing key services to ensure our sites and facilities are maintained and improved, our engineering expertise is vital to the delivery of our mission.

Visualisation techniques

Working with our computer scientists, our engineers employ state-of-the-art 3D virtual imagery to visualise complex engineering behaviours and characteristics, typically found in a warhead. Additive manufacturing is rapidly changing the design and production of critical components for nuclear weapons. This technique is used to produce comprehensive models of component designs prior to manufacture, helping achieve right-first-time solutions. Visualisation and virtual reality techniques also assist with operational training in support of 24/7 emergency response to hazardous or challenging threats.

Systems engineering

Our engineers use the latest systems engineering methods, coupled with validated electrical and dynamic mechanical modelling tools. These tools help our engineers to understand how complex engineering systems behave in different, or extreme, conditions.

Mechanical and Electronic engineering

Provides the capability to analyse, test, assess, manage, underwrite, certify and maintain the current warhead and ensure we have the capabilities required to design and develop any potential future warhead.

Model based solutions

Modern engineering at AWE uses model-based techniques to provide rapid design analysis and technical assessments. Our engineers use sophisticated computer simulations to observe how complex and often intricate components perform under high mechanical and thermal stresses. They also use cutting-edge modelling tools to study the effects of chemical reactions, ionising radiation (e.g. gamma rays) and non-ionising radiation – including electromagnetic interference.

Product Life Cycle Management

Utilises a model-based systems engineering approach to product management, integrating people, processes and supporting technology to maintain our contribution to the UK deterrent programme.

Construction and creating modern facilities

Our engineers work with our partners in construction, structural and civil engineering to deliver modern facilities and infrastructure that support our future programme requirements.Working with our partners in construction and building services enables us to create the right environment, to support the lifecycle of the warhead. We also work with our regulators as part of our commitment to support our processes, operations and our people – safely and securely. We are involved in major infrastructure projects to deliver future capability. These projects cover key areas, including environmental engineering, geotechnical issues, earth sciences, surveying and technology. Our engineers also work in other disciplines that enable our major projects and investments – as part of our site modernisation programme – to come to fruition.