Enhancing Transit Matching Outcomes Using Objective Data Analytics

Since the mid-1950s the United States has exported more than 380,000 metric tons of nuclear materials to over 45 countries. These materials are exported under peaceful use agreements that specify that materials shall not be used for any military purpose including research on or development of nuclear explosive devices. A key safeguard component in this process is prompt, accurate confirmation of receipt of exported nuclear materials once they arrive on foreign soil. Addressing this important national security concern requires close coordination among U.S. agencies, domestic fuel cycle facilities, the IAEA, and foreign trading partners to ensure that information regarding the movement of nuclear materials is timely and correctly reported, captured, and reconciled. Central to the success of this endeavor is the IAEA transit matching process which compares U.S. shipments with corresponding foreign receipts. This paper presents an examination of U.S. operating experience and identifies critical factors that influence and effect the overall success of transmit matching outcomes.