US Navy W93 Warhead Enters New Development Phase

W93 Program Advances to Production Design Phase

The US Navy’s W93/Mk7 nuclear weapons program has officially entered the Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) phase, according to a September 24 announcement from the Navy’s Portfolio Acquisition Executive Strategic Systems Programs (PAE SSP). The transition follows the program's achievement of Milestone B earlier in 2026. The program will now focus on completing the production design and demonstrating that the system can be manufactured to meet the service’s specific requirements. This phase represents a critical step in the development of the combined W93 warhead and Mk7 reentry body assembly, which is intended to provide a modern warhead for the US submarine-launched ballistic missile fleet. The W93 warhead and Mk7 reentry body assembly constitute the first US nuclear warhead and reentry system program initiated in nearly four decades. The acceleration into this development phase was attributed to the partnership between PAE SSP, the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), and industry partners.

Strategic Deterrence and Enterprise Modernization

Vice Adm. Douglas Williams, director of PAE SSP, stated that the W93/Mk7 program is designed to provide flexibility and adaptability to meet future Warfighter needs. He emphasized that the system will ensure an uninterrupted at-sea deterrent for the sea-based leg of the nuclear triad. Brandon Williams, administrator of the NNSA, linked the progress on the W93/Mk7 to broader efforts within the nuclear security infrastructure. "Credible deterrence demands urgency," Brandon Williams said. He noted that progress on the program demonstrates the revitalization and modernization of the Nuclear Security Enterprise to design, develop, and produce the weapon with precision. PAE SSP is responsible for sustaining strategic weapon systems on Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines. The office also supports the integration of the Trident II D5 Life Extension system on Columbia-class submarines.

Program Details and Timeline

The Navy’s announcement did not disclose a production schedule, cost estimate, or planned deployment date for the W93/Mk7 program. Information regarding the specific timeline for subsequent milestones or final deployment remains unspecified in the current release.