NUDET Detection System

The NUDET Detection System, managed by the Air Force, is designed to provide a robust and highly survivable capability for detecting nuclear detonations globally. It operates in near real-time to ensure that any nuclear events in the Earth's atmosphere or near space are promptly detected, located, and reported. The program follows an Operational Requirements Document from 2004 and is mandated by Public Law 110-181 to maintain detection capabilities at or above the levels established in 2008.

The program's objectives cover five key mission areas: Integrated Tactical Warning and Attack Assessment (ITW/AA), Nuclear Force Management (NFM), Space Control, Treaty Monitoring, and a classified mission. This initiative is a joint effort between the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Department of Energy (DOE), with shared funding and sponsorship. The DOE's National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) provides space sensors as Government Furnished Equipment, while the Air Force manages acquisition, systems engineering, integration, and testing on space vehicles.

The system comprises both space sensors and complex ground segments. The space segment includes three types of nuclear detection sensor payloads: the Radiation Detection Capability for Defense Support Program satellites, the Global Burst Detection payload for Medium Earth Orbit platforms like GPS satellites, and the Space Atmospheric Burst Reporting System payload for GEO platforms. These sensors work with host satellites to form a comprehensive global detection network.

On the ground, fixed and deployable segments analyze data and report findings to national authorities and other stakeholders. The ground control segment is continuously modernized through an incremental evolutionary acquisition approach. This includes upgrades such as operating system changes to meet information assurance requirements and hardware/software technology refreshes to ensure ongoing effectiveness and reliability.