The National Nuclear Security Administration announced on May 6, 2026, that construction is complete on the High Explosives Science and Engineering (HESE) facility at the Pantex Plant in Amarillo, Texas. The new building consolidates high explosives science, engineering, and technology development functions previously spread across 15 World War II-era structures into a single modern location. Construction began in November 2020, and the facility opened for operation just over five years later.
What it means
The completion of HESE centralizes the technological development activities that support the maintenance and surveillance of nuclear weapons. By moving these functions out of aging infrastructure and into a dedicated space, the NNSA aims to strengthen the scientific capabilities tied to the nation’s nuclear deterrent. Pantex Plant serves as the hub of the High Explosives Center of Excellence for Manufacturing and remains the primary site for the final assembly, dismantlement, and maintenance of nuclear weapons in the United States.
NNSA Administrator Brandon Williams said the facility is a major step forward in strengthening and modernizing America’s nuclear deterrent. Kelly Beierschmitt, president and general manager of PanTeXas Deterrence, called the new facility a landmark achievement that sets an unprecedented standard for high explosives research and development crucial to national security.
Key facts
- Facility: High Explosives Science and Engineering (HESE) building
- Location: Pantex Plant, Amarillo, Texas
- Function: Consolidates high explosives science, engineering, and technology development for weapons maintenance and surveillance
- Previous infrastructure: 15 World War II-era facilities
- Construction start date: November 2020
- Completion duration: Just over five years
- Announcement date: May 6, 2026
Source: U.S. Department of Energy National Nuclear Security Administration news release