AMARILLO – Pantex, the National Nuclear Security Administration’s High Explosives Center of Excellence for Manufacturing, kicked off a new era of weapons maintenance and surveillance today with a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open its new High Explosives Science and Engineering (HESE) facility.
“The HESE is yet another important upgrade in our continued investment in modern technology,” Pantex Production Operations Division Director Carl Beard said. “The facility serves as another critical piece in fortifying Pantex’s role within the Nuclear Security Enterprise.”
The structure opened in May 2026 for operations; just over five years after construction began in November 2020. The HESE allows Pantex to continue to fulfill its vital role today, while positioning itself for the future.
"The new High Explosives Science and Engineering facility is a landmark achievement, setting an unprecedented standard for high explosives research and development crucial to national security,” PanTeXas Deterrence President and General Manager Kelly Beierschmitt said. “This state-of-the-art facility not only exemplifies American ingenuity but also demonstrates our unwavering commitment to mission success. My sincere appreciation to all the Pantexans and others who made this happen."
The new facility combines activities performed at 15 aging facilities, and refines the space for the development of technology supporting the plant’s weapons maintenance and surveillance mission. The building consolidates several groups under one roof, allowing for more efficient collaboration.
“The HESE will enable Pantex to continue delivering on our mission to provide the nation’s nuclear weapons stockpile to the Department of War in support of national and global security,” said Pantex Field Office Manager Jason Armstrong. “This facility will also allow us to optimize for tomorrow as we develop new and innovative ways to accommodate and meet future weapon modernization and production demands.”
PanTeXas Deterrence, LLC (PXD) is the management and operating contractor for the National Nuclear Security Administration’s Pantex Plant located in Carson County near Amarillo, Texas. Pantex maintains the safety, security, and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear weapons stockpile. PXD is a joint venture led by a BWX Technologies, Inc. (BWXT) subsidiary – it also includes Fluor; SOC, A Day & Zimmermann Company; and The Texas A&M University System.
For more information on Pantex, visit www.pantex.energy.gov. Follow Pantex on Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
CONTACT
Ashlee Estlack
Communications
(C) 806.662.4687
ashlee.estlack@pantex.doe.gov