Consolidated Nuclear Security, LLC (CNS) will resume its transition to manage and operate the National Nuclear Security Administration's (NNSA) Pantex Plant in Amarillo, Texas, and Y-12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge, Tenn., effective immediately.

CNS, which includes Bechtel National, Inc. (BNI), Lockheed Martin Services, Inc., ATK Launch Systems Inc., SOC LLC, and teaming subcontractor Booz Allen Hamilton, will be responsible for the Pantex and Y-12 programs, two institutions vital to the nation's security. The five-year base contract includes options that may extend the contract term up to an additional five years, based on performance.

The NNSA selected the CNS team in January 2013, but other bidders protested the decision. After a review by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), the NNSA upheld the selection of the CNS team on Nov. 1, 2013. On Feb. 27, the U.S. GAO denied a third round of protests, and transition activities will resume immediately.

"Bechtel, Lockheed Martin, ATK, SOC, and Booz Allen Hamilton have site knowledge, technical leadership and experience with high-hazard operations that will lead Pantex and Y-12 to complete the critical mission," said Jim Haynes, CNS CEO.

"Our team has maintained a high state of readiness to effect a smooth transition, and we are committed to delivering our work during transition and the length of our contract to the highest standards of safety, security, and efficiency."

Both programs are key facilities in the U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise, charged with maintaining the safety, security, and effectiveness of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile.

Pantex is responsible for nuclear weapons life extension programs; weapons dismantlement; development, testing, and fabrication of high explosive components; and storage and surveillance of plutonium pits. Y-12 is responsible for safe and secure uranium storage, processing, and manufacturing operations.

"Lockheed Martin has a rich history in providing critical mission support and information management capabilities for the Department of Energy, including the Hanford site in Washington state, as well as operations management at the Sandia National Laboratory," said Frank Armijo, vice president of energy solutions at Lockheed Martin's Information Systems and Global Solutions.

"As part of the CNS team, we look forward to leveraging that experience to support the NNSA's critical mission."