AFI 11-2C-130v3 - BITS

AFI11-2C-130V3 23 APRIL 2012 271
Chapter 21
EMERGENCY NUCLEAR AIRLIFT OPERATIONS (ENAO)
21.1. General. The objective is to move nuclear weapons safely. You may be tasked at any
time to airlift nuclear weapons. The amount of preparation time and degree of assistance you
receive will depend on the length of time the MAJCOM has to move the weapons.
21.2. Conduct of Operations. Crews should be briefed and receive detailed instructions from a
specific OPLAN or mission directive. If there is a conflict between this instruction and the
requirements in an OPLAN or mission directive, use the OPLAN or mission directive.
21.3. Emergency Nuclear Airlift Standards. Crews are expected to use sound judgment and
common sense in what may be a turbulent or tense environment. Pay particular attention to the
following areas:
21.3.1. Nuclear weapons must be handled safely. The most immediate hazard is the high
explosive that can be set off by shock or heat in most nuclear weapons. Keep loading
operations controlled and orderly at all times. Load or handle only one item or pallet at a
time. Shipper and receiver personnel are highly trained in nuclear cargo movements and
should be used to assist in cargo loading operations and tie down. The overall aircraft loading
responsibility belongs to the aircrew.
21.3.2. Use specific loading procedures outlined in TO 1C-130A-9, Section 6.
21.3.2.1. For mixed loads (more than one type of weapon), base the load plan on how
many weapons can be properly restrained using TO 1C-130A-9 criteria. Do not allow
weapons to rub or touch each other when tied down.
21.3.3. The route of flight must not violate restrictions in the classified United States Air
Force Special Weapons Over-flight Guide (SWOG). Over-flight of a foreign country with
nuclear weapons is an extremely sensitive issue. Comply with SWOG instructions at all
times. Crews without access to the SWOG, will request a route of flight that complies with
the SWOG through command and control center (C2 agency) channels, 618 AOC/XOCG,
DSN 779-0323. The C2 agency must ensure the route of flight is provided to the aircrew by
the most expeditious means available. If no route of flight is provided, fly normal ATC
routings to the destination. Do not divulge the nature of cargo to any enroute ATC facility or
country to obtain a specific clearance.
21.4. Aircrew Selection. All active duty aircrews (except 374 AW) may be used for
Emergency Nuclear Airlift Operations (ENAO).
21.5. Aircrew Requirements.
21.5.1. Crew complement will be according to the OPLAN or specific mission directive. If
not specified, use a normal crew complement.
21.5.2. The crew will be armed (courier and two additional crewmembers).
21.5.3. Crewmembers tasked for a mission that has a higher security classification than their
personnel security clearance will be authorized emergency access to enough information to