The U.S. successfully tested a tactical thermonuclear gravity bomb using inert warheads in August, according to a research and development arm of the Department of Energy's (DoE) National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA).

The exercise was part of a stockpile reliability assessment, according to an official press release .

Conducted August 19–21 at the Tonopah Test Range in Nevada with support from Hill Air Force Base in Utah, it involved fifth-generation F-35A fighter jets carrying and releasing the bombs under operational conditions.

Newsweek contacted the U.S. DoE and the NNSA via email outside of usual working hours for comment.

Why It Matters

Coming just weeks after President Donald Trump suggested the U.S. could resume nuclear tests “on an equal basis” with oth

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