DAFI91-101 — Air Force Nuclear Weapons Surety Program

DAFI91-101 governs weapon configurations for nuclear safety protection and related side flash separation requirements.

Search DAFI91-101

  • Publication number: DAFI91-101
  • Title: AIR FORCE NUCLEAR WEAPONS SURETY PROGRAM
  • Date: 2025-07-16

View DAFI91-101 on armypubs.army.mil


It addresses additional lightning-safe configurations, side flash separation distances, and conditions for nuclear weapon operations in shelters and facilities. It requires approval for deviations from paragraph 5.10 and specifies when seven-foot separation applies or may be reduced.

Topics covered

  • Weapon configurations
  • Nuclear safety protection
  • Side flash separation distance
  • Lightning safe configurations
  • Nuclear weapon operations
  • Secure Transportable Maintenance System

Questions and answers

What additional configurations can weapon-specific technical orders require?

Weapon specific technical orders may apply additional lightning safe configurations for weapon and /or personnel safety.

How is the required side flash separation distance applied to a nuclear weapon?

The required side flash separation distance is properly applied to a nuclear weapon (or STMS) when an unobstructed minimum seven-foot clear zone exists between the weapon (or STMS) and the facility’s walls, ceiling, or any other structural member capable of conducting electrical energy (e.g., steel columns, rebar-reinforced interior walls, columns or beams).

Which objects in a Weapon Storage Vault do not require side flash separation distance?

Objects in the floor such as concrete rebar, floor grounds, and structural members of the Weapon Storage Vault, when the vault is in a full down position, do not require the application of the side flash separation distance.

When can temporary infringement of the side flash separation distance be permitted?

Transient or temporary infringement of the side flash separation distance requirement can be permitted.

Who must approve deviations from paragraph 5.10?

Deviations from paragraph 5.10 must be approved by AFSEC/SEW.

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