The inspections of Iraqi weapons of mass destruction are conducted under UN resolutions established at the end of the Gulf War. In September and October 1997, Miskell took part in the inspections of 19 facilities, some of which were associated with missiles, and examined both Iraqi capabilities to enrich nuclear material for weapons, produce the weapons and build or modify missiles capable of delivering nuclear weapons. Describing inspection activities, Miskell said he and others assigned to the work look at machine tools, manufacturing and inspection capability that could be used to manufacture nuclear weapons. The IAEA conducts nuclear-related inspections for the UN Security Council. At various intervals, he explained, the inspectors return to inspect the equipment to be sure it has not been moved and is still being used for the purpose for which it was declared.
Some equipment is placed under video surveillance.
Having worked in DOE's Weapons Complex for almost 40 years, Miskell has seen an array of machinery at the production facilities and the design laboratories used in weapons production. That background gives him valuable experience in recognizing such equipment at Iraqi sites. His participation in the UN program includes 16 inspections in Iraq. Through that program and others he has developed with the IAEA a long-term monitoring program for machine tools, inspection machines and other equipment useful for nuclear weapons production. He also provides technical support to DOE's Division of Nuclear Transfer and Supplier Policy.