NCJ Number
200474
Date Published
2003
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This videotape provides information to law enforcement on the role and activities of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA).
Abstract
The Department of Energy (DOE) administers the nuclear weapons program that designs, produces, and delivers nuclear weapons and components. The Department also deploys radiological emergency response assets, which involve teams and accident response groups. The role of DOE was expanded in the 1970's to provide protection to all shipments involving nuclear material. The Office of Secure Transportation (OST), a department within the NNSA manages this effort. A safe secure trailer or SST transports materials and meets protection requirements for nuclear components and weapons. A safeguards transporter or SGT is a newer version of the SST. These trailers are designed to deter, surprise, and delay adversaries. OST convoys include unmarked transport trucks and escort vehicles (vans). NNSA Federal agents are highly trained to protect this cargo. They receive 1,000 hours of training, including operational readiness training and firearm instruction. They are required to observe laws and if pulled over by local law enforcement, they interface with police. They do not wear uniforms but carry credentials. The escort vehicle has a sophisticated communication system with the truck and direct contact with the Transportation and Emergency Control Center (TECC) of OST located in Albuquerque, NM. Law enforcement assistance to convoys can include roadblocks, perimeter security, crowd and traffic control, and arms support. Local law enforcement is also responsible for reporting any threat information relative to transportation in area. Law enforcement officers arriving at the scene should use caution and the sign/countersign system of exchanging words to identify allies. A NSA or national security area temporarily places land under NNSA control during an incident or investigation. The OST provides an incident command system, assisted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). If the FBI cannot arrive immediately, local law enforcement assists the OST and notifies emergency and fire assistance.