# Navy Advances W93 Mk7 Warhead Development

The U.S. Navy's W93 Mk7 nuclear warhead and reentry system program has entered the Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) phase following Milestone B approval in 2026. This marks the first new U.S. nuclear warhead development in nearly 40 years and focuses on finalizing production design and demonstrating producibility to support the submarine-launched ballistic missile fleet. The program is a joint effort between the Navy's Portfolio Acquisition Executive Strategic Systems Programs (PAE SSP) and the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), emphasizing modernization and strategic deterrence enhancement.

- The EMD phase contract awarded in 2026 initiates detailed design and manufacturing readiness activities critical for future production.
- Procurement professionals should note the collaboration between DoD and DOE agencies, highlighting cross-agency coordination in nuclear weapons modernization.
- Industry stakeholders involved in defense nuclear systems may find emerging subcontracting and supply chain opportunities as the program advances.
- The program's focus on adaptability and future warfighter needs signals ongoing requirements for advanced engineering and manufacturing capabilities in strategic weapons systems.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Contracting Vehicles
**Published:** September 24, 2026

### Government Entities
- Portfolio Acquisition Executive Strategic Systems Programs (PAE SSP)
- National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)
- Department of Energy

### Key Quotes
> W93/Mk7 will provide flexibility and adaptability to meet future Warfighter needs and ensure an uninterrupted at sea deterrent for the sea-based leg of the nuclear triad.
> — Vice Adm. Douglas Williams, Director, PAE SSP

### Sources
- [DVIDS - News - Navy W93 Mk7 Program Enters New Phase of Development](https://www.dvidshub.net/news/575543/navy-w93-mk7-program-enters-new-phase-development) - dvidshub.net
- [
	Navy W93 Mk7 Program Enters New Phase of Development > U.S. Strategic Command > News Article View
](https://www.stratcom.mil/Media/News/News-Article-View/Article/4611543/navy-w93-mk7-program-enters-new-phase-of-development/) - US