BWX Technologies announced the opening of its centrifuge manufacturing development facility (CMDF) in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, part of its strategy to establish domestic uranium enrichment capability in support of U.S. national security priorities.
In September, the Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) awarded BWXT a contract valued at $1.5 billion.
“This facility signifies the kind of speed, focus and capability our national security demands,” said NNSA Administrator Brandon Williams in a statement. “By restoring a fully domestic uranium enrichment capability for defense needs, we are ensuring the United States can meet its defense fuel requirements now and into the future, strengthening our nuclear deterrent and maintaining assured second-strike capability.”
The CMDF serves as BWXT’s primary hub for the design, engineering, fabrication and testing of advanced gas centrifuge machines. The facility features precision manufacturing space, in-house quality assurance and testing capabilities, and specialized infrastructure to support future centrifuge production.
The facility builds on BWXT’s role in supporting U.S. defense, energy and space programs. Approximately 100 professionals are currently working in support of the CMDF and project activities, with plans to expand the workforce as manufacturing activities scale.
