K05 assurance architecture
United States — NRC Part 53 and Part 73 Subpart J path
Direct answer
OPTIONAL FRAMEWORK; LICENSEE ELECTION AND NRC APPROVAL REQUIRED
Evidence boundary. These records describe architecture, control relationships, test requirements, and legal-source status. They do not certify a facility, authorize a mission, prove deployment, or replace current facility-specific engineering and legal review.
Authority state
OPTIONAL FRAMEWORK; LICENSEE ELECTION AND NRC APPROVAL REQUIRED
Issue matrix
| Issue | Status | Boundary |
|---|---|---|
| Physical protection | 73.100 AVAILABLE TO QUALIFYING PART 53 LICENSEES THAT ELECT IT | Performance-based does not mean unregulated or automatically staff-free. |
| Digital systems and networks | 73.110 AVAILABLE WITH THE ELECTED FRAMEWORK | Exact protected systems and controls remain facility-specific. |
| Access authorization | 73.120 | Program design remains subject to the rule, guidance, license and NRC oversight. |
| Security staffing alternatives | FACILITY SHOWING REQUIRED | K05 rejects a universal zero-armed-responder claim. |
Qualification
Not legal advice; Final-rule status is verified; application to a named reactor requires licensing analysis.
Sources: Risk-Informed, Technology-Inclusive Regulatory Framework for Advanced Reactors — Final Rule · 10 CFR Part 73 Subpart J — Security Requirements at Commercial Nuclear Plants