Agency dedicated to nuclear security

ASHTON CARTER and Robert Joseph ('Strengthening our strategy against WMD," Op-ed, Aug. 14) leave the impression that the government is doing little about countering potential weapons of mass destruction.

With a budget of more than $9 billion a year, the National Nuclear Security Administration has the nation's foremost nuclear weapons and materials expertise; employs top scientists and specialists who ensure the safety, security, and reliability of the nuclear weapons stockpile; and develops and deploys technology and training to detect, secure, and dispose of dangerous nuclear and radiological material around the world. Since Sept. 11, 2001, Congress has supported a twofold increase in NNSA's nonproliferation efforts to prevent the threat of nuclear smuggling and terrorism.

In addition, as a key responder to nuclear and radiological emergencies in the United States and abroad, the NNSA is pivotal in supporting the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, Department of Homeland Security, and other agencies. NNSA's emergency responders, on call around the world, have seen their funding triple since Sept. 11, 2001, to prevent and address 21st century nuclear and radiological threats.

A clear picture must be presented on efforts to combat WMD, and NNSA's role as a trusted agency with unique national and nuclear security expertise and experience should not be overlooked.

DAVID A. CAMPBELL
Director, Office of Congressional, Intergovernmental and Public Affairs
National Nuclear Security Administration
Washington