Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory



Systems Analysis

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The Laboratory has played an important role for the Department of Defense (DOD) by providing detailed quantitative technical analyses that outline how weapon systems can be best applied as part of the U.S. strategic deterrent. Starting with D Division in the Military Applications Directorate in the ‘70s and ‘80s, LLNL has developed and maintained expertise in applications and effectiveness of weapon systems, weapon effects, and conflict modeling and simulation.

Given the dynamic threat landscape facing the U.S., coordinated technical systems analysis in support of the DOD is becoming increasingly in demand. To help meet this need, the Laboratory has formed a Systems Analysis Group (SAG) with the ODC. The SAG will technically assess national security threats, formulate options and provide advice on strategic deterrence initiatives through the analysis of multi-domain deterrence – conventional, cyber, space and nuclear – alternatives to counter rapidly evolving threats. SAG studies are proposed based on assessments of needs derived from U.S. government policy and strategy activities and documents and approved by the LLNL Director.

SAG projects are divided into three main thrust areas:

  1. Stockpile Futures and Strategic Deterrence: Alternative strategic stockpiles and hedge strategies to address evolving threats; Non-ballistic technologies for counter IADS; Hardened and deeply buried targets (HDBT); Tailored effect weapons and deterrence; Technical aspects of strategic deterrence, Multi-domain effects and deterrence.
  2. Modeling and Simulation of Nuclear Conflict: Enhancing nuclear effects and operations in Joint Conflict and Tactical Simulation (JCATS) to model survivability of forces, including support to CCMDs for nuclear planning and operations; High-altitude nuclear effects on LEO assets; Systems studies using Enhanced Consequence Analysis capabilities; Support for Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3) modernization; Proactive scenario planning for Laboratory response to USG for potential crises.
  3. Strategic and Theater Missile Defense: Options for countering hypersonic threats; Cruise Missile defense (fleet defense and homeland defense); Modeling and simulation of missile defense systems; Directed energy and counter-space; Space-based missile defeat options.