The BNTVA (1131134) was set up in 1983 to gain recognition and restitution for the British nuclear test veterans who took part in the British and American nuclear tests at the Montebello Islands, Christmas Island, Malden Island and Maralinga & Emu Field, South Australia. 

We believe that over 22,000 British servicemen participated in the British and American nuclear tests and clean-ups between 1952-1965, along with scientists from the Atomic Weapons Research Establishment and civilians. The majority of men have passed away, and around a tenth of the men from the Army, Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, Merchant Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary remain. 


In 2017, the BNTVA became a registered Charity (Charitable Incorporated Organisation, no. 1173575), with the aim of providing welfare to nuclear test veterans, their wives, widows and descendants of British nuclear tests, and Operation Dominic. We promote research into the effects of clastogenic radiation on the nuclear community, and educate the general public about the nuclear tests in creative ways. The nuclear tests are a relatively forgotten part of Cold War History and it is therefore important that this important British heritage should be preserved.   


The BNTVA


  • Provides pastoral support through Pastoral Support Officers, including for bereavement, loss and anxiety. 
  • Signposts to specialist military and mental health charities for emotional and practical assistance, including respite support and short-term care. 
  • Offers advocacy support to assist with social and health issues. 
  • Assists with form-filling for war pensions and claiming benefits. 
  • Collates oral and written histories of the British nuclear tests by nuclear test veterans. 
  • Records oral narratives of veterans’ time spent at the nuclear tests. 
  • Preserves archives relating to the nuclear tests, and individual accounts from veterans and their families. 
  • Is preparing to commence a virtual museum of the heritage of the nuclear tests. 
  • Holds a subsidised annual conference/reunion and events for veterans to connect and make friends. 
  • Provides a BNTVA coffin drape when requested for funerals. 
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