US conducts underground high-explosive test to boost nuclear detection

The US carried out a non-nuclear explosive experiment at its Nevada test site to improve detection of low-yield blasts. The exercise comes amid renewed scrutiny of decoupled explosions, Chinese nuclear allegations and arms control talks.

In Short

• The United States carried out a subsurface chemical explosives experiment at Nevada site
• Officials said the exercise focused on detecting low-yield blasts more accurately
• Researchers used radiotracers and tunnel data to test detection models

The US National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) conducted a subsurface, non-nuclear chemical high-explosive experiment on Wednesday at the Nevada National Security Site, the Energy Department said.

The experiment was aimed at improving the United States' ability to detect low-yield nuclear explosions, particularly "decoupled" explosions that can reduce the effectiveness of seismic monitoring.

The test was conducted in the P Tunnel in Area 12 using chemical high-explosives and radiotracers, according to the Energy Department. Data gathered during the experiment will be used to validate scientific models and refine algorithms used in US nuclear explosion detection efforts.

The experiment comes amid US concerns over China's alleged nuclear activities. Washington earlier this year accused Beijing of conducting a secret nuclear test in June 2020, alleging that the test involved methods designed to reduce its seismic signature.

China rejected the allegation as "entirely unfounded", saying it was an attempt to "fabricate excuses for resuming" US nuclear testing.

The United States has also called for a broader arms control treaty as concerns grow over the detection and monitoring of nuclear explosions.

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