AFI13-500 — Air Force Nuclear Mission Responsibilities

AFI13-500 governs management of the Air Force nuclear mission, organizational responsibilities, and governing bodies.

Search AFI13-500

  • Publication number: AFI13-500
  • Title: Air Force Nuclear Mission Responsibilities
  • Date: 2018-11-14

View AFI13-500 on armypubs.army.mil


It defines key functions of the Air Force nuclear mission and provides guidance for Air Force nuclear governing bodies. It also addresses Nuclear Mission Assessments and assigns responsibilities across Air Force organizations.

Topics covered

  • Air Force nuclear mission management
  • Nuclear Mission Assessments
  • Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications
  • Personnel Reliability Assurance
  • Nuclear governing bodies
  • Nuclear occupational competencies

Questions and answers

What does AF/A10 monitor for the Air Force nuclear mission?

Conduct monitoring and oversight activities regarding the safety, security, reliability, and effectiveness of Air Force nuclear weapons and nuclear weapons systems, planning, strategy, and policy development, and assessment of Air Force nuclear mission activities. (paragraph 2)

How often must AF/A10 assess the nuclear deterrence mission?

Conduct periodic, comprehensive assessments of all aspects of the Air Force’s nuclear deterrence mission required by 10 USC § 8040 and provide these assessments to the Secretary of the Air Force (SecAF) and the Chief of Staff of the Air Force (CSAF). (paragraph 3)

What does the Principal Assistant to the Secretary for Space oversee?

As the HAF focal point for space, SAF/SP supports the SecAF in all matters pertaining to both the Air Force and the National Security Space Enterprise, and oversees Air Force integration with the National Security Space Enterprise, including those Space Enterprise capabilities directly supporting the Air Force nuclear mission. (paragraph 2)

What personnel does AF/A1 oversee for the nuclear mission?

Oversee personnel management, accessions, development, requirements, utilization, and sustainment of the Service’s nuclear-related Regular Air Force and federal civilian personnel to ensure a fully-qualified force. (paragraph 2)

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