From Refugee to Renowned Explosives Scientist
Born in 1960 in Saigon, Nguyet Anh Duong fled Vietnam with her family in April 1975 just before the Fall of Saigon. After spending time in a Philippine refugee camp, they were granted asylum in the U.S. and eventually settled there. Duong earned dual degrees in chemical engineering and computer science from the University of Maryland.
Crisis-Era Innovation Delivered in Just 67 Days
At the U.S. Naval Surface Warfare Center, Duong was handed the challenge of developing a thermobaric (bunker-buster) bomb. Leading a 100-strong team, she achieved the feat in just 67 days, delivering the BLU-118/B to the Air Force during the Afghanistan war—an unprecedented pace.
Innovations & National Security Honors
Beyond the BLU-118/B, Duong managed the development of 10 high-performance explosives across 18 weapon systems, including ground-breaking tunnel-busting munitions and undersea weapons. Since 2002, she’s held senior science and technology roles for the U.S. Navy and Homeland Security. Her work earned her the Dr. Arthur E. Bisson Prize, Civilian Meritorious Medal, and the prestigious National Security Medal in 2007.
Legacy: A Sign of Continuity and Accuracy
Duong’s transformation from refugee to top military scientist—dubbed the “Bomb Lady”—is a powerful and inspirational story. She remains unapologetic in her mission—believing sophisticated weaponry can ensure peace by protecting American soldiers and deterring adversaries. Today, she stands as a powerful role model for women and Asian-Americans in STEM, celebrating resilience, innovation, and service.
