Evolution of the Russian Methodological and Training Center: Results and Plans

The Russian Methodological and Training Center was created within the Institute of Physics and Power Engineering in Obninsk, Russia and has been in continuous and successful operation for five years. The Grand Opening of the RMTC took place November 4, 1999 and involved representatives of Russian, European, and American State authorities. The Grand Opening symbolized the great importance of the RMTC and the acknowledgement of its role in the Russian NMC&A system. The evolution of the RMTC continues as it is molded by the MPC&A Program, the U.S. DOE, and TACIS, EC; aiming to increase RMTC capabilities in order to assure its sustainability and future success. This report illustrates the principle behind the foundation of the RMTC: to increase the efficiency of Nuclear Material Control and Accounting in Russia. This requires a strong and advanced infrastructure, entailing the creation of new laboratories; the development of new courses; the implementation of modern training techniques and devices; and the execution of more advanced technologies.