ROCKVILLE, Md., March 7, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- 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 (NYSE: LMT), 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."

About Bechtel:
Bechtel is among the most respected engineering, project management, and construction companies in the world.  We stand apart for our ability to get the job done right—no matter how big, how complex or how remote. Bechtel operates through five global business units that specialize in civil infrastructure; power generation, communications and transmission; mining and metals; oil, gas and chemicals; and government services. Since its founding in 1898, Bechtel has worked on more than 22,000 projects in 140 countries on all seven continents. Today, our 53,000 employees team with customers, partners, and suppliers on diverse projects in nearly 50 countries. For more information about Bechtel visit www.bechtel.com. 

About Lockheed Martin:
Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 115,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The Corporation's net sales for 2013 were $45.4 billion.

About ATK: 
ATK Aerospace Group, which is representing ATK on the Bechtel team, is the world's top producer of solid rocket propulsion systems and a leading supplier of military and commercial aircraft structures. It also specializes in small and micro-satellites; satellite components and subsystems; lightweight space deployables and solar arrays; low-cost, quick-to-market launch solutions; flares and decoys; and energetic materials and related technologies. The group has extensive experience supporting human and space payload missions. ATK is an aerospace, defense, and commercial products company with operations in 22 states, Puerto Rico, and internationally.

About SOC:
SOC LLC is a trusted provider of integrated security and mission support carrying out and enabling national security missions globally in support of the U.S. Government, international organizations, and corporations. Founded as a security contractor supporting the US Departments of Energy, Defense, and State, SOC has broadened its portfolio to include a wide array of critical mission support, base operations, and professional staffing services. We are now a company of more than 5,000 highly trained and experienced personnel running some of the most sensitive and complex assignments around the world.

About Booz Allen Hamilton:
Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading provider of management consulting, technology, and engineering services to the US government in defense, intelligence, and civil markets, and to major corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit organizations. Booz Allen is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, employs approximately 23,000 people, and had revenue of $5.76 billion for the 12 months ended March 31, 2013. In 2014, Booz Allen celebrates its 100th anniversary year. For more information about Booz Allen Hamilton visit www.boozallen.com.

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SOURCE Lockheed Martin