Two surveillance flight tests that used mock B61-7 and B61-11 bombs have been accomplished successfully earlier this month, the U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) has announced, according to RT.

JTAs have no nuclear devices inside. Instead, they contain special recorders that gather information on the bomb performance during tests. The sensors and instruments inside the bombs enable the scientists and engineers to track their performance during the flight.

Flight-tests are part of qualification process needed to approve modifications to the bomb. The data obtained from the tests is used in a computer simulator developed by Sandia National Laboratories to see how reliable the new systems are and if they function properly.

“The B61 is a critical element of the U.S. nuclear triad and the extended deterrent,” said Brigadier-General Michael Lutton, NNSA’s Principal Assistant Deputy Administrator for Military Application. “The recent surveillance flight tests demonstrate NNSA’s commitment to ensure all weapon systems are safe, secure, and effective.”

Sandia and Los Alamos national laboratories worked jointly on the B61 assemblies that are manufactured at the Kansas City National Security Campus and assembled at the Pantex Plant in Amarillo, Texas.