DAFI91-101_AFMCSUP — Air Force Nuclear Weapons Surety Program

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

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  • Publication number: DAFI91-101_AFMCSUP
  • Title: AIR FORCE NUCLEAR WEAPONS SURETY PROGRAM
  • Date: 2026-08-04

View DAFI91-101_AFMCSUP on armypubs.army.mil


It contains requirements for applying side flash separation distances around nuclear weapons, STMS, and facilities. It also specifies conditions for temporary infringements, reduced distances, and approved deviations.

Applies to: This publication applies to all AFMC units.

Topics covered

  • Nuclear weapon configurations
  • Side flash separation distances
  • Lightning safe configurations
  • Secure Transportable Maintenance Systems
  • Hardened Aircraft Shelters
  • Protective aircraft shelters

Questions and answers

What additional configurations may technical orders require for weapon or personnel safety?

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 or STMS?

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

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.

Can the side flash separation distance be temporarily infringed?

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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