National Security at Risk: Nuclear Agency Furloughs 80% of Workforce Amid Historic Government Shutdown

Summary:
The U.S. nuclear weapons oversight agency is furloughing nearly 80% of its staff due to the ongoing government shutdown.
Only 375 out of 1,775 employees are deemed “essential” and will remain on duty.
This comes as the shutdown enters its third week, the longest in U.S. history.
Critical modernization, research, and non-proliferation programs are now on hold.
Experts warn of potential long-term security and strategic consequences.

Detailed Report:

The United States is facing mounting national security concerns as the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) has announced furloughs affecting approximately 80% of its workforce. This drastic move follows an extended federal government shutdown now entering its third week — a new record in U.S. history.

Out of the NNSA’s total workforce of 1,775, only about 375 employees will remain operational, classified as essential for minimum safety and monitoring functions. The furloughs immediately impact vital national security programs including nuclear arsenal maintenance, infrastructure modernization, and global non-proliferation efforts.

The NNSA plays a critical role in ensuring the safety, reliability, and technological advancement of the nation’s nuclear weapons. While warhead deployment remains under military control, the agency handles all scientific, engineering, and maintenance operations. The shutdown has put a pause on modernization projects and nuclear treaty verification processes — key functions in global arms control.

Officials within the agency and defense analysts have voiced concern that a prolonged disruption could lead to delays in the replacement of aging nuclear components, setbacks in infrastructure upgrades, and weakened international credibility regarding nuclear commitments.

The shutdown itself stems from an unresolved budget deadlock in Congress, with lawmakers unable to agree on funding provisions for critical departments. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of federal workers across various agencies remain unpaid or furloughed, awaiting clarity on when they might return to work.

As pressure mounts in Washington to resolve the funding impasse, experts warn that continued delays may have long-term consequences not only for domestic operations but also for the U.S.’s strategic posture on the global stage.