LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (AFPN) -- A Defense Nuclear Surety Inspection was conducted at the 5th Bomb Wing, Minot Air Force Base, N.D., from May 16 to 26.
Inspectors from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, the Department of Defense Inspector General, Air Force IG, Air Combat Command IG and Air Force Space Command IG evaluated the wing. Members of the Air Force Inspection Agency and U.S. Strategic Command provided additional oversight.
A DNSI is designed to thoroughly evaluate a unit's readiness to execute nuclear operations and takes place every 18 months. The last DNSI of the 5th BW took place in June 2006.
More than 140 inspectors evaluated the wing for nearly 10 days in several areas, including technical operations, management and administration, security, logistics movement, storage and maintenance facilities, supply support and safety.
Although the wing excelled in numerous areas, deficiencies were observed in the areas of security and logistics movement. ACC officials are ensuring experienced instructors augment the wing's aggressive plan to address these deficiencies. ACC inspectors will return to inspect necessary areas within 90 days in accordance with established Department of Defense and Air Force guidance.
"It is important to note that these inspections are extremely detailed and demand the highest standards of performance," said Brig. Gen. Joseph Reynes, the ACC IG.
For example, even something such as improper tire pressure on one of the transport vehicles could result in an overall unsatisfactory grade, an ACC inspector said.
"Regardless, there is no room for error in dealing with the nuclear enterprise of the United States Air Force," said General Reynes. "We must meet the highest standards of safety, security and effectiveness. Anything less than full compliance is unacceptable."
To maintain and improve its readiness, the wing will undergo several exercises in the coming months, to include participating in a Red Flag exercise this summer and a nuclear operations readiness exercise. In addition, the wing will prepare to deploy aircraft, aircrews, maintenance and support teams this fall. The wing's mission continues while the wing works to refine its capabilities.
"The 5th Bomb Wing team has the full confidence, trust and support of Air Force leadership," said Gen. John Corley, ACC commander. "Minot Airmen are highly trained professionals who have their safety, the safety of their community, and the defense of our nation in the forefront of their minds. The wing remains capable and certified to continue operations and training for its strategic mission."
The ACC IG recognized 86 individuals and 30 teams for their superior performance during the DNSI.
Reports of inspections are privileged documents and are not releasable.
