Attachment 0005 - PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATION MIL-PRF-71167C with AMD. 3 - 7.62mm SRTA M973-M974.pdf

CUI

MIL-PRF-71167C

w/AMENDMENT 3 29 September 2022

SUPERSEDING

MIL-PRF-71167C

w/AMENDMENT 2 01 November 2017

(U) PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATION

(U) CARTRIDGE, 7.62MM: SHORT RANGE TRAINING AMMUNITION BALL - M973

(U) CARTRIDGE, 7.62MM: SHORT RANGE TRAINING AMMUNITION TRACER - M974

(U) This specification is approved for use by all Departments and Agencies of the Department of Defense within the distribution limitations noted at the bottom of the page.

AMSC N/A FSC 1305

DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT D. Distribution authorized to the Department of Defense and U.S. DoD contractors only, export controlled, 29 September 2022. Other requests shall be referred to the Project Manager for Maneuver Ammunition Systems, ATTN: SFAE-AA-MAS, Picatinny Arsenal, NJ 07806-5000.

WARNING – This document contains technical data whose export is restricted by the Arms Export Control Act (Title 22, U.S.C., Sec. 2751, et. seq.) or the Export Administration Act of 1979, as amended, Title 50, U.S.C., App. 2401 et. seq. Violations of these export laws are subject to severe criminal penalties. Disseminate in accordance with provisions of DoD Directive 5230.25.

DESTRUCTION NOTICE: Destroy by any method that will prevent disclosure of contents or reconstruction of this document.

Comments, suggestions, or questions on this document should be addressed to: Commander, U.S. Army DEVCOM AC, ATTN: FCDD-ACE-QSA, Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey 07806- 5000 or e-mailed to usarmy.pica.devcom-ac.list.ardec-stdzn-branch@army.mil. Since contact information can change, you may want to verify the currency of this information using ASSIST Online database at https://assist.dla.mil.

INCH-POUND

Controlled by: DEVCOM AC Controlled by: FCDD-ACE-QSA CUI Category: CTI, EXPT Distribution Statement: D POC: Standardization Office, Email: usarmy.pica.devcom-ac.list.ardec-stdzn-branch@army.mil https://assist.dla.mil/

1. (U) SCOPE

1.1 (U) Scope. This specification describes the performance requirements and verification methods for the Cartridge, 7.62MM: plastic ball, practice M973, and the Cartridge, 7.62MM: plastic tracer, practice M974. These rounds are commonly referred to as Short Range Training Ammunition (SRTA). For the rest of this document both rounds will be referenced as SRTA and each single round by its model number. All requirements in this specification apply to both M973 and M974 rounds, unless otherwise noted that they are specific to the M974 round (see 6.1).

1.2 (U) Army type-designator. The Army-type designator M973 and M974 referenced in this specification is of Army origin and does not reflect a particular design (See 6.6).

2. (CUI) APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

2.1 (U) General. The documents listed in this section are specified in sections 3 or 4 of this specification. This section does not include documents in other sections of this specification or recommended for additional information or as examples. While every effort has been made to ensure the completeness of this list, document users are cautioned that they must meet all specified requirements of documents cited in sections 3 and 4 of this specification, whether or not they are listed.

2.2 (U) Government documents.

2.2.1 (U) Specifications, standards, and handbooks. The following specifications, standards, and handbooks form a part of this document to the extent specified herein. Unless otherwise specified, the issues of these documents are those listed in the solicitation or contract (see 6.2).

(CUI) INTERNATIONAL STANDARDIZATION AGREEMENTS

AOP-7 Manual of Data Requirements and Tests for the Qualification of Explosive Materials for Military Use.

(CUI) FEDERAL STANDARDS

SAE-AMS-STD-595/31158 Colors used in Government procurement/Light Red, Flat

SAE-AMS-STD-595/35109 Colors used in Government procurement/Light

Blue, Flat

(U) (Documents are available online at https://www.sae.org/) https://www.sae.org/

(CUI) DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE SPECIFICATIONS

MIL-PRF-372 Cleaning Compound, Solvent (for Bore of Small Arms and Automatic Aircraft Weapons)

MIL-PRF-2104 Lubricating Oil, Internal Combustion Engine, Combat/Tactical Service

MIL-PRF-14107 Lubricating Oil, Weapons, Low Temperature MIL-PRF-63460 Cleaner, Lubricant and Preservative for Weapons and Weapon

Systems

(CUI) DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE STANDARDS

MIL-STD-286 Propellants, Solid: Sampling, Examination and Testing MIL-STD-636 Visual Inspection Standards for Small Arms Ammunition through Caliber .50 MIL-STD-464 Electromagnetic Environmental Effects Requirements for

Systems MIL-STD-650 Explosives: Sampling, Inspection and Testing MIL-STD-810 Environmental Test Methods and Engineering Guidelines MIL-STD-1168 Ammunition Lot Numbering and Ammunition Data Card

MIL-STD-1916 DOD Preferred Methods for Acceptance of Product

(U) (Documents are available online at https://quicksearch.dla.mil/.)

(CUI) U.S. ARMY DEVELOPMENT COMMAND ARMAMENT CENTER

(DEVCOM AC) SPECIFICATIONS

DTL13038145 Detail Specification, Item Specification for the Multi-Small

Caliber Ammunition Test Procedures (M-SCATP)

(U) (Application for copies should be sent to usarmy.pica.devcom-ac.list.qesa-qem-d@army.mil)

2.2.2 (U) Other Government documents, drawings, and publications. The following other Government documents, drawings, and publications, form a part of this document to the extent specified herein. Unless otherwise specified, the issues are those cited in the solicitation.

(CUI) U.S. ARMY DEVELOPMENT COMMAND ARMAMENT CENTER

(DEVCOM AC) DRAWINGS

6006874 "E" Cardboard Silhouette Target 6109086 "F" Cardboard Silhouette Target 7553221 Pin, Firing, 7.62mm, 9mm, Cal .30 & Cal. 50 7643674 Classification of Cartridge Case Defects 8421679 M31A2, Trainfire Target Holding Mechanism 9362607-23 Packing and Marking for Box, Wire Bound for Cartridge, 7.62mm

10520006 Ball, 3.94 Oz 12002898 "E" Polyethylene Silhouette Target 12002899 "F" Polyethylene Silhouette Target 12992285 Cartridge, 7.62mm Short Range Training Ammunition (SRTA), M974

Tracer 12992286 Cartridge, 7.62mm Short Range Training Ammunition (SRTA), M973

Ball

(U) (Request for copies should be sent to pica.Drawing.Request@conus.army.mil.)

(CUI) DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE TECHNICAL BULLETIN

TB 700-2 Department of Defense Explosives Hazard Classification Procedures

(U) (This document is available online at https://ent.ldac.army.mil/etmapp)

(CUI) US ARMY DEVELOPMENT TEST COMMAND

ITOP 1-2-601 Laboratory Vibration Schedules ITOP 4-2-601 Drop Tower Test for Munitions ITOP 4-2-602 Rough Handling Tests TOP 1-2-608 Sound Level Measurements TOP 2-2-614 Toxic Hazards Tests for Vehicles and Other Equipment TOP 3-2-045 TECOM Test Operating Procedure, Automatic Weapons, Machine

Guns, Hand and Shoulder Weapons TOP 3-2-609 Chemical Compatibility TOP 4-2-604 Range Firing of Small Arms Ammunition TOP 4-2-827 Time of Flight and Ballistic Coefficient

(U) (Copies of these documents may be found online at https://www.atec.army.mil/publications/documents.html)

(CUI) DEPOT MAINTENANCE WORK REQUIREMENTS

DMWR 9-1300-0017-D1 Depot Maintenance Work Requirements for Demilitarization of Miscellaneous Small Arms Ammunition

(U) (Request for copies should be sent to ROCK-AMSJM-LID@conus.army.mil)

(CUI) ENVIROMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (EPA)

EPA 550-B-01-003 List of Lists; Consolidated List of Chemicals, Subject to the EPCRA and Sec 112 of the Clean Air Act mailto:pica.Drawing.Request@conus.army.mil https://ent.ldac.army.mil/etmapp https://www.atec.army.mil/publications/documents.html mailto:ROCK-AMSJM-LID@conus.army.mil

(U) (Copies of the publication are available from https://www.epa.gov)

2.3 (U) Order of precedence. Unless otherwise noted herein or in the contract, in the event of a conflict between the text of this document and the references cited herein, the text of this document takes precedence. Nothing in this document, however, supersedes applicable laws and regulations unless a specific exemption has been obtained.

3. (CUI) REQUIREMENTS

3.1 (CUI) Design verification. When specified (see 6.2), a sample of the SRTA cartridges shall be subjected to design verification in accordance with 4.1, and Tables I, II V and

VI.

3.1.1 (CUI) Product uniformity of key characteristics. The key characteristics of the design that are deemed essential to meet performance, safety and reliability requirements shall be identified and variability limits or baselines shall be established, during design verification. The variability of key characteristics for the cartridges submitted for first article and lot acceptance shall conform to the baseline limits established for them during design verification

3.1.2 (CUI) Classification of defects. Defects inherent to the cartridge design that are not already listed in Table V shall be identified during design verification and shall be classified as either a minor, major, or critical defect in accordance with MIL-STD-1916.

3.2 (CUI) First article inspection. When specified (see 6.2), a sample of the SRTA cartridges shall be subjected to first article inspection in accordance with 4.2, and Tables I, III V and VI.

3.3 (CUI) Conformance inspection. When specified (see 6.2), a sample of the SRTA cartridges shall be subjected to conformance inspection in accordance with 4.3, and Tables I, IV, V and VI.

3.4 (CUI) Interface and interoperability requirements

3.4.1 (CUI) Interface and compatibility. The SRTA shall be functionally compatible with the standard issued M240 series machine gun. The M973 Ball cartridge shall be capable of being linked with the M974 Tracer cartridge by using M13 links, loaded, chambered, fired in a M240 series machine gun and extracted after firing without binding or use of undue force, without damage to the weapon and without cartridge-induced malfunctions.

3.4.2 (CUI) Physical dimensions. The SRTA dimensions shall conform to 12992285

(Tracer) and 12992286 (Ball) as applicable.

3.4.3 (CUI) Cartridge identification.

https://www.epa.gov/

3.4.3.1 (CUI) Cartridge color. The SRTA shall be readily identifiable by having one or more component or portions thereof being light blue in color as specified in SAE-AMS-STD- 595/35109. No visible cartridge component shall be white in color. The light blue color shall be visible when linked with M13.

3.4.3.2 (CUI) Trace identification. The M974 trace round shall be marked at the tip of bullet in red color as specified in SAE-AMS-STD-595/31158 as to differentiate it from the M973 ball round.

3.4.3.3 (CUI) Head stamp. The manufacturer’s initial or registered trademark (upper case), last two digits of the year of manufacture and a lower case “s” shall be legibly stamped on the cartridge head surface. Stamping shall not encroach the primer pocket or head bevel.

3.5 (CUI) Operating requirements.

3.5.1 (CUI) Primer sensitivity. The value of the average height (h) and standard deviation

(s) of the height of fire functioning by a 3.94 ± 0.02 ounce (111.7 ± 0.6 g) steel ball shall be such that h+ 5(s) shall be less than or equal to 15 inches (38.1 cm) and h-2(s) shall be greater than or equal to 2 inches (7.62 cm).

3.5.2. (CUI) Chamber pressure. (See 6.19)

a. The average chamber pressure of the cartridges conditioned and fired at ambient temperature, shall be not greater than 57,000 psi (393 MPa).

b. The average chamber pressure of the cartridges conditioned and fired at hot or cold temperatures shall not increase by greater than 8500 psi (59 MPa) or decrease by greater than 15000 psi (103 MPa) above the mean chamber pressure obtained at ambient

c. The chamber pressure of any individual cartridge shall be not greater than 62,000 psi (428 MPa).

d. The average chamber pressure plus 3 standard deviations of the chamber pressure shall be not greater than 62,000 psi (428 MPa).

3.5.3 (CUI) Velocity.

a. The design velocity shall be established as the mean velocity (corrected) obtained during design verification at ambient temperature.

b. For first article and conformance acceptances, when conditioned and fired at ambient, the mean velocity shall not vary by more than ± 6 percent from the design velocity.

c. The average velocity of the cartridge conditioned and fired at hot or cold shall not vary by more than ± 10 percent from the mean velocity of the lot being tested at ambient.

3.5.4 (CUI) Action time. The action time (overall primer ignition, propellant burning, plus the time taken for the bullet to exit the barrel) of cartridges conditioned and fired at cold, ambient, or hot shall not exceed 4 milliseconds (ms).

3.5.5 (CUI) Dispersion. The average mean radius of the impact of 10 rounds at a distance of 109.3 yds (100 meters) shall not exceed 4.75 inches (12 cm).

3.5.6 (CUI) Cyclic rate. The cartridges conditioned and fired at cold, ambient, or hot shall function the M240 machine gun at an average cyclic rate of not less than 550 and not greater than 800 shots per minute.

3.5.7 (CUI) Noise level. The maximum peak sound pressure level of the cartridge when fired shall be not greater than 164 decibels and the duration shall not be greater than 20 ms.

3.5.8 (CUI) Bullet integrity. The bullet of the cartridge shall not burst or fragment in the barrel or during its flight.

3.5.9 (CUI) Target kill. When the target is hit, the projectile shall mark the target sufficiently to indicate a target hit and activate a standard target mechanism at a range of 109.3 yds (100 meters). A mark shall be identified as an indent, crack, perforation, or hole in the target.

3.5.10 (CUI) Maximum range. The maximum range of the cartridge (when fired at standard atmospheric conditions) shall be no greater than 656.2 yds (600 meters). All projectiles fired at the maximum range shall impact the ground within a safety fan defined by the Surface Danger Zone, established during design verification (see 6.2).

3.5.11 (CUI) Trajectory match. The trajectory of the SRTA projectile shall match within ±2 mil of the M80 ball at a range out to 109.3 yds (100 meters) from the muzzle.

3.5.12 (CUI) Bullet extraction. The force required to separate an individual bullet from the cartridge case shall not be less than 45 lbs (20.4 kg).

3.5.13 (CUI) Trace visibility. During day and night firing, the projectile of the M974 Tracer cartridge shall exhibit a visible trace of full luminosity between 27.3 yds (25 meters) and

109.3 yds (100 meters) from the weapon muzzle.

3.5.14 (CUI) Function and Casualty.

a. The SRTA shall function without casualty when fired at cold, ambient, and hot temperatures in the M240 machine gun.

b. When fired at extreme cold and extreme hot temperatures, the cartridge shall not cause any safety hazard to the operator or result in a critical defect.

c. The reliability of the cartridge shall be established using function and casualty testing results during design verification (see 6.7.2).

3.5.15 (CUI) Residual stress. The SRTA cartridge case shall not split when subjected to residual stress.

3.6 (CUI) Environmental requirements.

3.6.1 (CUI) Waterproof. After cartridges have been submerged in ambient water (between 2 inches and 3 inches of water above the cartridge) for 24 hours, and then fired, the cartridges shall have a mean velocity that does not vary by more than +98.5 ft/s (30 m/s) from the mean velocity of the lot being tested at ambient (see 4.5.3).

3.6.2 (CUI) Sequential rough handling. The SRTA shall not accidentally detonate when exposed to the following rigors of rough handling and transportation, and shall meet all specified requirements after such exposure; except that after the 12 meter drop the cartridges are only required to be safe to handle and dispose of.

a. Secured-cargo vibration

b. Loose cargo bounce test

c. Cartridges, packaged in accordance with the packaging provisions of the contract, dropped 2.1 meters.

d. 12 meter drop

e. 1.5 meter unpackaged drop

3.6.3 (CUI) Pyrotechnic sensitivity. All pyrotechnic materials shall be insensitive to initiation during routine shipping, handling and storage.

3.6.4 (CUI) Long term high temperature storage. The SRTA shall be safe to fire (no critical defects) after being subjected to 28 days of continuous heating at 63°C ± 2°C. The reliability of the cartridge (when compared with the reliability obtained at ambient temperature's function and casualty testing for the requirement in 3.5.14) shall not degrade by more than 5% (see 6.7.2), and the cyclic rate shall not change by more than 15%.

3.6.5 (CUI) Long term low temperature storage. The SRTA shall be safe to fire (no critical defects) after being subjected to 28 days continuous cooling at -35°C ± 2°C. The reliability of the cartridge (when compared with the reliability obtained at ambient temperature's function and casualty testing for the requirement in 3.5.14) shall not degrade by more than 5% (see 6.7.2) and the cyclic rate shall not change by more than 15%.

3.6.6 (CUI) Thermal shock. The SRTA shall exhibit no evidence of corrosion and shall meet all safety and operational requirements in the M240 machine gun, after exposure to alternately high (68 ± 2°C) and low (-55 ± 2°C) temperature extremes.

3.6.7 (CUI) Temperature humidity. The cartridge shall be safe to store and fire after being subjected to a 10-day temperature/humidity cycle.

3.6.8 (CUI) Sand and dust. The cartridges shall be safe to fire after being subjected to sand and dust conditions at ambient temperature.

3.6.9 (CUI) Salt fog. The cartridge shall be safe to store and fire after exposure to 96 hours of alternating 24 hour periods of salt fog environment in accordance with MIL-STD-810.

3.6.10 (CUI) Hot chamber effects (cook-off). A cartridge inserted into the chamber of the M240 machine gun following the firing of 200 cartridges in the weapon shall not fire (cook off). In addition, the cartridge shall not deform to the extent that clearing of the weapons is made difficult.

3.6.11 (CUI) Barrel erosion. The SRTA shall not degrade the average life of the barrel to less than 5,000 rounds (4,000 M973 Ball rounds and 1,000 M974 Tracer rounds). The barrel life shall be considered as having ended when the average velocity of an individual burst in the test drops 66.7 yds/sec (61 meters/sec) or more from the design velocity.

3.6.12 (CUI) Toxic fumes. The toxic fumes produced by the SRTA cartridge shall not be greater than those produced by firing similar quantities of M80 ball ammunition.

3.6.13 (CUI) Chemical compatibility. The cartridge shall maintain its function in the M240 machine gun after exposure to commonly encountered chemicals in the field.

3.7 (CUI) Support and ownership requirements

3.7.1 (CUI) Ammunition lot identification. Ammunition lot identification shall be assigned in accordance with MIL-STD-1168.

3.7.2 (CUI) Safety. The SRTA cartridges shall be lead-free with exception of the primer, in which lead is allowed.

3.7.3 (CUI) Final hazard classification. The SRTA shall comply with the following Hazard Classification when packaged in accordance with the packaging requirements specified in the contract (see 6.11):

DOD Hazard Class/Div: 1.4 DOD Hazard Compatibility Group: S DOT Hazard Class: 1.4S

3.7.4 (CUI) Energetic material qualification. All energetic material used in the SRTA shall be for their intended military use (see 6.10).

3.7.5 (CUI) Energetic materials compatibility. All energetic materials (explosives, propellants, and pyrotechnics) utilized must be compatible with all combinations of directly contacting energetic and non-energetic materials.

3.7.6 (CUI) Propellant stability. All propellants shall be stable over a time period of not less than 5 years.

3.7.7 (CUI) Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Personnel-borne. If cartridges are made with case material other than brass, then the cartridges shall withstand 25.0 ± 1.2 kilovolts electrostatic discharge without burning, exploding or becoming unsafe to handle when tested in accordance with 4.7.7.

3.7.8 (CUI) Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Helicopter-borne. If cartridges are made with case material other than brass, then the cartridges shall withstand 300 ± 15 kilovolts electrostatic discharge without burning, exploding or becoming unsafe to handle when tested in accordance with 4.7.8.

3.7.9 (CUI) Demilitarization.

a. The cartridge shall be able to be demilitarized in accordance with procedures in the Small Arms Technical Manual DMWR 9-1300-0017-D1.

b. The use of hazardous materials as specified in Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) EPA 550-B-01-003 List of Lists; Consolidated List of Chemicals, Subject to the EPCRA and Sec 112 of the Clean Air Act shall be avoided (see 6.2).

3.7.10 (CUI) Workmanship. All items shall be free of burrs, chips, flashing, voids, sharp edges, free from wrinkles, deep draw scratches, scaly metal, cracks, dirt, grease, rust and other foreign matter or imperfections. Cartridges shall be free of foreign material including, but not limited to, corrosion, stains, oil, sealant smears and metal chips.

4. (CUI) VERIFICATION

(CUI) TABLE I. Requirements/verification cross-reference matrix

Method of Verification 1 - Analysis 2 - Demonstration 3 - Examination 4 - Test

Classes of Verification A – Design verification B - First Article C - Conformance

Requirement Verification Methods

Verification Class Verification

1 2 3 4 A B C

3.1 Design verification X X X X X 4.1

3.1.1 Product uniformity X X X X X X X 4.1.1

3.1.2 Classification of

defects X X X X X X X 4.1.2

3.2 First article X X X X 4.2

3.3 Conformance X X X X 4.3

3.4.1 Interface & compatibility X X X X X X 4.4.1

3.4.2 Physical dimensions X X X X 4.4.2

3.4.3.1 Cartridge color X X X X 4.4.3.1

3.4.3.2 Trace ID X X X X 4.4.3.2

(CUI) TABLE I. Requirements/verification cross-reference matrix – Continued

Requirement Verification Methods

Verification Class Verification

1 2 3 4 A B C

3.4.3.3 Head stamp X X X X 4.4.3.3

3.5.1 Primer sensitivity X X X X 4.5.1

3.5.2 Chamber pressure X X X X 4.5.2

3.5.3 Velocity X X X X 4.5.3

3.5.4 Action time X X X X 4.5.4

3.5.5 Dispersion X X X X 4.5.5

3.5.6 Cyclic rate X X X X 4.5.6

3.5.7 Noise level X X 4.5.7

3.5.8 Bullet integrity X X X X 4.5.8

3.5.9 Target kill X X 4.5.9

3.5.10 Maximum range X X X 4.5.10

3.5.11 Trajectory match X X 4.5.11

3.5.12 Bullet extraction X X X X 4.5.12

3.5.13 Trace visibility X X X X 4.5.13

3.5.14 F&C X X X X 4.5.14

3.5.15 Residual stress X X X X 4.5.15

3.6.1 Waterproof X X X X 4.6.1

3.6.2 Seq. rough handling X X 4.6.2

3.6.3 Pyrotechnic sensitivity X X 4.6.3

3.6.4 Long term high temp X X 4.6.4

3.6.5 Long term low temp X X 4.6.5

3.6.6 Thermal shock X X 4.6.6

3.6.7 Temperature humidity X X 4.6.7

3.6.8 Sand and dust X X 4.6.8

3.6.9 Salt fog X X 4.6.9

3.6.10 Hot chamber effect X X 4.6.10

3.6.11 Barrel erosion X X 4.6.11

3.6.12 Toxic fumes X X 4.6.12

3.6.13 Chemical compatibility X X 4.6.13

3.7.1 Ammo lot ID X X 4.7.1

3.7.2 Safety X X X 4.7.2

3.7.3 Final hazard classification X X 4.7.3

3.7.4 Energetic material qualification X X 4.7.4

3.7.5 Energetic material

compatibility X X 4.7.5

3.7.6 Propellant stability X X 4.7.6

3.7.7 ESD personnel X X 4.7.7

3.7.8 ESD helicopter X X 4.7.8

(CUI) TABLE I. Requirements/verification cross-reference matrix – Continued

3.7.9 Demilitarization X X 4.7.9

3.7.10 Workmanship X X X X 4.7.10

4.1 (CUI) Design verification. When specified, a sample of cartridges shall undergo design verification by analysis, demonstration, examination and test in accordance with TABLES I, II, V, VI, and applicable paragraphs within this section. Quantities depicted in TABLE II apply to both M973 and M974 rounds.

4.1.1 (CUI) Product uniformity of key characteristics. Verify by examination of objective evidence and analysis that all key characteristics have been identified and valid variability limits have been established.

4.1.2 (CUI) Classification of defects. Verify by examination of objective evidence and analysis that all design specific inherent defects have been identified and correctly classified, based on safety, and possible consequence of deficiency.

4.1.3 (CUI) Design verification rejection. If any item of the sample fails to comply with any design verification requirement specified, the design shall be rejected.

(CUI) TABLE II. Design verification tests and inspection

Examination or Test Qty Requirement Paragraph

Inspection Method Notes 1/

Primer sensitivity 50 3.5.1 4.5.1 Chamber pressure

a. Cold 50 3.5.2 4.5.2 2/

b. Ambient 50 3.5.2 4.5.2 2/

c. Hot 50 3.5.2 4.5.2 2/ Velocity

a. Cold 50 3.5.3 4.5.3 2/

b. Ambient 50 3.5.3 4.5.3 2/

c. Hot 50 3.5.3 4.5.3 2/ Action time

a. Cold 50 3.5.4 4.5.4 2/

b. Ambient 50 3.5.4 4.5.4 2/

c. Hot 50 3.5.4 4.5.4 2/ Dispersion

a. Test barrel 180 3.5.5 4.5.5

b. M240 300 3.5.5 4.5.5 Cyclic rate

a. Cold 6,000 3.5.6 4.5.6 3/

b. Ambient 36,000 3.5.6 4.5.6 3/

c. Hot 3,000 3.5.6 4.5.6 3/ Noise 20 3.5.7 4.5.7 Bullet integrity

a. Cold 180 3.5.8 4.5.8 3/ & 4/

b. Ambient 180 3.5.8 4.5.8 3/ & 4/

c. Hot 180 3.5.8 4.5.8 3/ & 4/ Target kill 160 3.5.9 4.5.9 Maximum range 70 3.5.10 4.5.10 Trajectory match 100 3.5.11 4.5.11 Bullet extraction 50 3.5.12 4.5.12 Trace visibility 600 3.5.13 4.5.13 5/

(CUI) TABLE II. Design verification tests and inspection – Continued

Inspection Method Notes 1/

Function & Casualty See Table VII for testing breakdown

a. Extreme cold 250 3.5.14 4.5.14 6/

b. Cold 12,000 3.5.14 4.5.14 6/

c. Ambient 75,000 3.5.14 4.5.14 6/

d. Hot 6,000 3.5.14 4.5.14 6/

e. Extreme hot 250 3.5.14 4.5.14 6/ Residual stress 50 3.5.15 4.5.15 Waterproof 120 3.6.1 4.6.1 Sequential rough handling 1,600 3.6.2 4.6.2 Pyrotechnic sensitivity 300 3.6.3 4.6.3 5/ Long term high temperature storage 2,000 3.6.4 4.6.4 Long term low temperature storage 1,000 3.6.5 4.6.5 Thermal shock 400 3.6.6 4.6.6 Temperature/ humidity cycling 1,000 3.6.7 4.6.7 Sand & dust 1,000 3.6.8 4.6.8 Salt fog 400 3.6.9 4.6.9 Hot chamber effects (cook off) 1,000 3.6.10 4.6.10 Barrel erosion 15,000 3.6.11 4.6.11 7/ Toxic fumes 50 3.6.12 4.6.12 Chemical compatibility 50 3.6.13 4.6.13 Safety - 3.7.2 4.7.2 Final hazard classification 11,660 3.7.3 4.7.3 Energetic material qualification 300 3.7.4 4.7.4 Energetic material compatibility 300 3.7.5 4.7.5 Propellant stability 300 3.7.6 4.7.6 ESD personnel-borne 20 3.7.7 4.7.7 ESD helicopter-borne 10 3.7.8 4.7.8 Demilitarization - 3.7.9 4.7.9 Workmanship - 3.7.10 4.7.10

(CUI) TABLE II. Design verification tests and inspection – Continued

Notes:

1/ If no accept reject criteria is expressed in notes, the design represented by the sample shall be rejected if any of the cartridges fail to comply with the applicable requirement.

2/ These tests will be done simultaneously.

3/ These tests shall be carried out in conjunction with Function and Casualty test of the

M973 Ball and M974 Tracer cartridges. It shall be identified when that particular test is going to be conducted prior to the actual Function and Casualty testing.

All cartridges fired in full-automatic mode of the Function and Casualty test at cold, ambient, and hot, with each weapon, shall be evaluated for Cyclic Rate.

The first 60 cartridges fired in semi-automatic mode (3-8 round bursts) of the Function and Casualty test at cold, ambient, and hot, with each weapon, shall be evaluated for Bullet Integrity.

4/ Defects at all temperatures shall be combined.

Conformance Criteria shall be: Accept on 15 / Reject on 16 projectile breakups.

5/ Applies to M974 tracer round only.

Trace Conformance Criteria shall be: Accept on 80 / Reject on 81 for projectile non-traces.

6/ Refer to Table VI for accept/reject criteria.

7/ This test shall be conducted at ambient temperature using three M240 machine guns for a total of three barrels. The sample amounts shall be evenly distributed between the weapons. The ammo shall be linked four M973 Ball to one M974 Tracer.

4.2 (CUI) First article inspection. When specified in the contract, a sample of the cartridges shall be subjected to first article verification in accordance with TABLES I, III, V, VI, and applicable paragraphs within this section. Quantities depicted in TABLE III apply to both M973 and M974 rounds.

4.2.1 (CUI) First article rejection. If any assembly, component or test specimen fails to comply with any of the applicable requirements, the first article sample shall be rejected.

(CUI) TABLE III. First article tests and inspection

Inspection Method Notes 1/

Examination of Defects Cartridge, 7.62MM: plastic ball, practice M973 & plastic tracer, practice M974 (12992285 & 12992286)

100% 3.1.1, 3.1.2 TABLE V

Critical 100% & Level VII

3.1.1, 3.1.2 TABLE V 2/

Major Level V 3.1.1, 3.1.2 TABLE V 2/ Minor Level III 3.1.1, 3.1.2 TABLE V 2/ Cartridge interface Level V 3.4.3 4.4.3 Primer sensitivity 25 3.5.1 4.5.1 Chamber pressure

a. Cold 50 3.5.2 4.5.2 3/

b. Ambient 50 3.5.2 4.5.2 3/

c. Hot 50 3.5.2 4.5.2 3/ Velocity

a. Cold 50 3.5.3 4.5.3 3/

b. Ambient 50 3.5.3 4.5.3 3/

c. Hot 50 3.5.3 4.5.3 3/ Action time

a. Cold 50 3.5.4 4.5.4 3/

b. Ambient 50 3.5.4 4.5.4 3/

c. Hot 50 3.5.4 4.5.4 3/ Dispersion

a. Test barrel 120 3.5.5 4.5.5 Cyclic rate

a. Cold 180 3.5.6 4.5.6 4/

b. Ambient 180 3.5.6 4.5.6 4/

c. Hot 180 3.5.6 4.5.6 4/ Bullet integrity

a. Cold 180 3.5.8 4.5.8 4/ & 5/

b. Ambient 180 3.5.8 4.5.8 4/ & 5/

c. Hot 180 3.5.8 4.5.8 4/ & 5/ Maximum range 20 3.5.10 4.5.10

(CUI) TABLE III. First article tests and inspection – Continued

Inspection Method Notes 1/

Bullet extraction 25 3.5.12 4.5.12

Trace visibility 200 3.5.13 4.5.13 6/

Function & Casualty See Table VII for testing breakdown

a. Cold 360 3.5.14 4.5.14 7/

b. Ambient 360 3.5.14 4.5.14 7/

c. Hot 360 3.5.14 4.5.14 7/ Residual stress 50 3.5.15 4.5.15 Waterproof 50 3.6.1 4.6.1 Workmanship - 3.7.10 4.7.10

1/ If no accept reject criteria is expressed in notes, the First Article sample shall be rejected if any of the cartridges fail to comply with the applicable requirement.

2/ Level III, Level V, and Level VII refers to verification Level III, verification Level V, or verification Level VII respectively of Table II Attribute Sampling plans in MIL-STD- 1916. Primer defects 101, 102, and 103 shall be inspected 100% and at Level V.

3/ These tests will be done simultaneously.

4/ These tests shall be carried out in conjunction with Function and Casualty test of the

M973 Ball and M974 Tracer cartridges. It shall be identified when that particular test is going to be conducted prior to the actual Function and Casualty testing.

The first 60 cartridges fired in semi-automatic mode (3-8 round bursts) of the Function

5/ Defects at all temperatures shall be combined.

Conformance Criteria shall be: Accept on 18 / Reject on 19 projectile breakups.

6/ Applies to M974 tracer round only.

Trace Conformance Criteria shall be: Accept on 40 / Reject on 41 for projectile non-traces.

7/ Refer to Table VI for accept/reject criteria.

4.3 (CUI) Conformance verification (lot acceptance tests). When specified (see 6.2), sample cartridges and components shall undergo conformance inspection by examination, analysis, demonstration and tests as specified in accordance with Tables I, IV, V, VI, and applicable paragraphs within this section. For conformance inspections the same sample specimen may be used for all non-destructive examinations or tests. Quantities depicted in Table IV apply to both M973 and M974 rounds.

4.3.1 (CUI) Lot formation. The cartridges shall be assembled into identifiable lots. Each lot shall consist of cartridges manufactured under essentially the same conditions. Lot formation shall conform to requirements of MIL-STD-1916, and lot numbering shall be in accordance with MIL-STD-1168. The cartridge lot shall contain:

a. Cartridge cases from one unchanged process and from one manufacturer.

b. Bullets from one unchanged process and one manufacturer

c. Primers from one lot interfix number and one manufacturer.

d. Propellant from no more than two lot numbers and from one manufacturer

4.3.2 (CUI) Inspection of cartridges by classification of defects. Inspection of cartridges shall be performed for known character defects as specified in Table V as well as any design specific defects that are not listed in Table V. Inspection sampling requirements for critical, major and minor characteristics are defined in MIL-STD-1916.

4.3.3 (CUI) Conformance rejection. If any assembly, component or test specimen fails to comply with any of the applicable requirements, the conformance sample shall be rejected.

(CUI) TABLE IV. Conformance tests and inspection

Inspection Method Notes

Examination of Defects Cartridge, 7.62MM: plastic ball, practice M973 & plastic tracer, practice M974 (12992285 & 12992286)

100% 3.1.1, 3.1.2 TABLE V

Critical 100% & Level VII

3.1.1, 3.1.2 TABLE V 1/

Major Level IV 3.1.1, 3.1.2 TABLE V 1/ Minor Level II 3.1.1, 3.1.2 TABLE V 1/ Cartridge interface Level IV 3.4.3 4.4.3 Primer sensitivity 25 3.5.1 4.5.1 Chamber pressure

a. Cold 30 3.5.2, 3.5.2.1 4.5.2 2/ & 3/

b. Ambient 30 3.5.2, 3.5.2.1 4.5.2 2/ & 3/

c. Hot 30 3.5.2, 3.5.2.1 4.5.2 2/ & 3/

(CUI) TABLE IV. Conformance tests and inspection - Continued

Inspection Method Notes

Velocity

a. Cold 30 3.5.3, 3.5.3.1 4.5.3 2/ & 3/

b. Ambient 30 3.5.3, 3.5.3.1 4.5.3 2/ & 3/

c. Hot 30 3.5.3, 3.5.3.1 4.5.3 2/ & 3/ Action time

a. Cold 30 3.5.4 4.5.4 2/ & 3/

b. Ambient 30 3.5.4 4.5.4 2/ & 3/

c. Hot 30 3.5.4 4.5.4 2/ & 3/ Dispersion

a. Test barrel 90 3.5.5 4.5.5 Cyclic rate

a. Cold 120 3.5.6 4.5.6 2/ & 4/

b. Ambient 120 3.5.6 4.5.6 2/ & 4/

c. Hot 120 3.5.6 4.5.6 2/ & 4/ Bullet integrity

a. Cold 120 3.5.8 4.5.8 4/ & 5/

b. Ambient 120 3.5.8 4.5.8 4/ & 5/

c. Hot 120 3.5.8 4.5.8 4/ & 5/ Bullet extraction 25 3.5.12 4.5.12 6/ Trace visibility 200 3.5.13 4.5.13 7/ Function & Casualty See Table VII for testing breakdown

a. Cold 240 3.5.14 4.5.14 8/

b. Ambient 240 3.5.14 4.5.14 8/

c. Hot 240 3.5.14 4.5.14 8/ Residual stress 50 3.5.15 4.5.15 9/ Waterproof 30 3.6.1 4.6.1 Workmanship - 3.7.10 4.7.10 Notes:

1/ Level II or Level IV refers to verification Level II or verification Level IV respectively of

Table II Attribute Sampling plans in MIL-STD-1916.

2/ Failure to comply with the applicable requirement shall be cause for testing of a second sample consisting of double the quantity used in the first test. Failure of the cartridges in the second sample to comply with the applicable requirement shall be cause for rejection of the lot. If that failed requirement was performed at a particular temperature the double sample shall be performed at that temperature.

(CUI) TABLE IV. Conformance tests and inspection – Continued

3/ These tests will be done simultaneously.

4/ These tests shall be carried out in conjunction with Function and Casualty test of the

M973 Ball and M974 Tracer cartridges. It shall be identified when that particular test is going to be conducted prior to the actual Function and Casualty testing.

The first 60 cartridges fired in semi-automatic mode (3-8 round bursts) of the Function

5/ Defects at all temperatures shall be combined.

Conformance Criteria shall be: If more than 7 but less than 33 cartridges fail in the first test, a second sample consisting of double the number of cartridges in the first sample shall be tested for bullet integrity across all temperatures. The lot shall be rejected if in the combined first and second sample, 33 or more cartridges fail to comply with the requirement. The combined first and second sample shall consist of 360 cartridges per temperature (1080 total cartridges).

6/ If one average extraction force fails in the first test, then a second sample consisting of double the number of cartridges in the first sample shall be tested. The lot shall be rejected if in the combined first and second samples, two average extraction force failures occur.

7/ Applies to M974 tracer round only. Trace Conformance Criteria shall be: If more than 40 but less than 121 cartridges fail in the first test, a second sample consisting of double the number of cartridges in the first sample The lot shall be rejected if in the combined first and second test sample of 600 total cartridges; a total of 121 or more cartridges fail to comply with the requirement.

8/ Refer to Table VI for accept/reject criteria.

9/ Failure of two or more cartridges to comply with the applicable requirement shall be cause for rejection of the lot. If one cartridge fails in the first test, a second sample consisting of double the number of cartridges in the first sample shall be tested. If any failing cartridges are found in the second sample, the lot shall be rejected.

(CUI) TABLE V. Defect inspection by classification of characteristics.

Classification Examination or Test 1/ 2/ 3/ Conformance Criteria

Component Part

Inspection Method

Critical

1. Case split in K, L, or M location

(6) 100% &

Level VII Cartridge Visual/Gage

2. Case split in I, S, or J location (6) when loss of powder occurs

100% & Level VII Cartridge Visual/Gage

3. Perforated case (7) 100% & Level VII Cartridge Visual/Gage

4. Propellant weight under minimum 4/

100% & Level VII Cartridge Gage

5. Incorrect cartridge 5/ 100% & Level VII Cartridge Visual/Gage

Major 101 Primer missing (32) 100% &

Level IV Primer Visual/Gage

102 Primer cocked (33) 100% & Level IV Primer Visual/Gage

103 Primer inverted (34) 100% & Level IV Primer Visual/Gage

104 Case split in I, S, or J location (6) with no loss of powder

Level IV Cartridge Visual/Gage

105 Corroded or stained (if etched) case (2)

Level IV Cartridge Visual

106 Round head (case) (4) Level IV Cartridge Visual 107 Dented case (5) Level IV Cartridge Visual 108 Draw scratch in case (8) Level IV Cartridge Visual 109 Beveled underside of head (10) Level IV Cartridge Visual 110 Scaly metal (case) (12) Level IV Cartridge Visual 111 No chamfer on head (rim) (13) Level IV Cartridge Visual 112 Loose primer (35) Level IV Primer Visual/Gage 113 Diameter of extractor groove, maximum, incorrect Level IV Cartridge Gage

114 Diameter of head, incorrect Level IV Case Gage 115 Thickness of rim, incorrect Level IV Case Gage 116 Length to shoulder datum Level IV Case Gage 117 Depth of primer, incorrect Level IV Primer Gage

(CUI) TABLE V. Defect inspection by classification of characteristics – Continued

Classification Examination or Test 1/ 2/ 3/ Conformance Criteria

Component Part

Inspection Method

118 Primer cup missing Level IV Primer Visual/Gage 119 Overall Length, Maximum Level IV Cartridge Gage 120 Cartridge Identification Marking or blue color missing/incorrect Level IV Cartridge Visual

121 Incorrect cartridge 5/ Level IV Cartridge Visual Minor 201 Discolored, Dirty, oily, or smeared

(waterproofing) Level II Cartridge Visual

202 Dented case (5) Level II Case Visual 203 Draw scratch in case (8) Level II Case Visual 204 Scratch in case (9) Level II Case Visual 205 Scaly metal on case (12) Level II Case Visual 206 Fold, wrinkle buckle, or bulge in case (14, 15, 16, 17) Level II Case Visual

207 Head stamp missing or illegible(18)

Level II Case Visual

208 Defective head (19) Level II Case Visual 209 No waterproofing material (primer pocket joint) (37) Level II Cartridge Visual

210 Defective crimp (primer)(38) Level II Cartridge Visual 211 Diameter of extractor groove, minimum Level II Case Gage

212 Workmanship Level II Cartridge Visual Notes :

1/ Numbers in parenthesis after defect descriptions refer to visual standards in MIL-STD-636.

For case split locations see 7643674.

2/ Level II, Level IV, or Level VII refers to verification level II, level IV, or level VII respectively of Table II Attributes sampling plans in MIL-STD-1916.

(CUI) TABLE V. Defect inspection by classification of characteristics – Continued

Notes – Continued:

3/ Any defects not specified in the Table that are inherent to the submitted design shall be recognized and classified for future examination during the product baseline and key characteristic establishment phase.

4/ The minimum charge required to preclude the possibility of a bullet in bore shall be established. Cartridges containing less than this minimum charge are critically defective.

5/ Inspection for incorrect cartridge type shall be performed during or immediately prior to the packaging operation, which is before cartridge lot acceptance. Occurrence of any type other than blank, dummy, inert or a training round shall be classified as a critical defect. Occurrence of a blank, dummy, inert or a training round shall be classified as a major defect. If a defect is found at 100% inspection, which is during or immediately prior to the packaging operation inspection, the incorrect cartridge type shall be replaced with a correct cartridge type. For verification level inspection, a VL VII sample shall be selected at random from the lot. From this VL VII sample, a lesser sample size (VL V for First Article tests and VL IV for Conformance tests) shall be selected at random. The lesser sample shall be inspected for major and critical incorrect cartridge type defects. The cartridges that remain of the initial VL VII sample after the lesser sample is selected shall be inspected for critical incorrect cartridge type defects only. If a critical defect is found during VL VII inspection, the lot shall be withheld from acceptance and government approved procedures for product disposition shall be followed. If a major defect is found during inspection of the lesser sample, the incorrect cartridge type shall be replaced with a correct cartridge type and the entire lot shall be subjected to a subsequent 100% inspection. During the subsequent inspection, any incorrect cartridge type found shall be replaced with a correct cartridge type.

(CUI) TABLE VI. Function and casualty firing defect criteria.

Defect Description

Criteria 6/

Classification

Design Verification

4/

First Article Lot Acceptance 5/

Acc Rej Acc Rej First Sample

Cumulative Sample

Bullet in bore 0 1 0 1 0 1 Critical Misfire - propellant weight under minimum

0 1 0 1 0 1 Critical

Misfire - no vent hole or obstruction 9 10 0 1 0 1 Major Misfire - lightweight primer 9 10 0 1 0 1 Major Misfire – other 139 140 3 4 1 3 Major Primer defects:

a. Perforation in the primer cup caused by the firing pin

2/ 2/ 24 25 18 45 Minor

b. Perforation in the primer cup not caused by the firing pin

1/ 1/ 5 6 3 12 Major

c. Escape of gas around the primer cup

2/ 2/ 13 14 13 22 Minor

d. Blown primer (Primer separates from casehead and primer pocket is grossly distorted)

1/ 1/ 5 6 3 12 Major

e. Primer that falls out of pocket on retraction of the bolt

1/ 1/ 5 6 3 12 Major

Case casualties 3/

a. Longitudinal split

(1) Through case base (M) 0 1 0 1 0 1 Critical

(2) Case base (L) 0 1 0 1 0 1 Critical

(3) Body (K) extending to case base

0 1 0 1 0 1 Major

(4) Upper body (J) 1/ 1/ 5 6 3 12 Major

(5) Neck and shoulder (I or S) 2/ 2/ 29 30 27 65 Minor

b. Circumferential rupture

(1) Complete 0 1 0 1 0 1 Critical

(2) Partial – case base (L) 0 1 0 1 0 1 Critical

(3) Partial – body (K) 0 1 0 1 0 1 Critical

(4) Partial – neck, shoulder, or upper body (I, S or J)

2/ 2/ 13 14 13 22 Minor

Stoppage attributable to ammo 2/ 2/ 13 14 13 22 Minor Failure to extract 1/ 1/ 3 4 2 3 Major Other stoppages 7/ 2/ 2/ 13 14 13 22 Minor

(CUI) TABLE VI. Function and casualty firing defect criteria - Continued

1/ The defect rate for all these defects combined shall not exceed 3 per 1,100 rounds.

2/ The defect rate for all these defects combined shall not exceed 9 per 1,100 rounds.

3/ For location of defects indicated in parenthesis, see drawing 7643674.

4/ For design verification and first article inspection, if the function and casualty defects plus firing defects observed in all other tests exceed the acceptance number, the qualification sample shall be rejected.

5/ For conformance testing. The lot shall be rejected when function and casualty defects plus firing defects observed in all other tests exceed the acceptance number for the cumulative sample in Table VI. If the number defects found in the first test exceeds the acceptance number, a second sample, consisting of double the quantities specified for the function and casualty test, shall be fired. If the total number of defects in the combined first and second samples exceeds the acceptance number for the cumulative sample, the lot shall be rejected.

If, in testing a second sample, defects other than those for which the second sample is being tested should occur to the extent that the acceptance number for the cumulative sample is exceeded, the lot shall be rejected.

6/ This table shall be applied to the combined results of each M240 with the results at each temperature.

7/ This is any other defect that is not likely to reduce materially the usability of the round or weapon for its intended purpose, or is a departure from established standards having little bearing on the effective use or operation of the round. Analysis shall be done to find a root cause for stoppages.

4.4 (CUI) Interface and interoperability verification

4.4.1 (CUI) Interface and compatibility. Interface and compatibility of the SRTA shall be verified by successful completion of tests in Tables I, IV, V, and VI.

4.4.2 (CUI) Physical dimensions. The cartridge dimensions shall be verified by standard measurement equipment or specialty gauges.

4.4.3 (CUI) Cartridge identification.

4.4.3.1 (CUI) Cartridge color. The cartridge identification shall be verified by visual inspection using a SAE-AMS-STD-595/35109 color chip.

4.4.3.2 (CUI) Trace identification. The trace cartridge M974 color shall be verified by visual inspection using SAE-AMS-STD-595/35109 & SAE-AMS-STD-595/31158 color chips.

4.4.3.3 (CUI) Head stamp. The stamp on the surface of the cartridge head shall be verified by visual inspection.

4.5. (CUI) Operating verifications. With approval, ballistic tests can be combined and conducted simultaneously to minimize resources and time. All ballistic testing shall be examined against Table VI. For any ballistic test except function and casualty, where the occurrence of a firing defect prevents the obtaining of a valid result for the characteristic being tested, the defect shall be observed. The particular test for which the round was fired shall not be penalized. A replacement round shall be fired to obtain the data for the test.

Unless specified the following definitions describe the temperature conditions for this specification.

Extreme Cold: -34°C ± 3° (-30°F ± 5.4°F) Cold: -20°C ± 3° (-4°F ± 5.4°F) Ambient: 20°C ± 3° (68°F ± 5.4°F) Hot: 40°C ± 3° (104°F ± 5.4°F) Extreme Hot: 54°C ± 3° (129°F ± 5.4°F)

The ammunition will be conditioned at the respective temperatures for not less than 4 hours (not less than 2 hours for ambient). If the temperature controlled container(s) used for conditioning are of the circulating air type, have been brought to the specified temperature and maintained prior to conditioning the ammunition, and have sufficient space to allow airflow around each cartridge, then the conditioning times for all temperatures may be shortened to periods of at least 1 hour. Unless otherwise specified, the conditioned ammunition may be fired at ambient temperature. The conditioned ammunition (other than ambient) will not be exposed to ambient temperature conditions for more than 5 minutes unless specified. If the conditioned ammunition is exposed for specified time, the ammunition will be reconditioned for a minimum of 4 hours.

4.5.1 (CUI) Primer sensitivity. Test in accordance with DTL13038145, Appendix J, Primer Sensitivity Test Procedure, utilizing the ball and firing pin identified on drawings 10520006 and 7553221.

4.5.2 (CUI) Chamber pressure. The test samples shall be conditioned at the specified test temperatures in Section 3.5.2. The test shall be conducted in accordance with DTL13038145, Appendix A, Electronic Pressure, Velocity and Action Time (EPVAT) Test Procedure.

4.5.3 (CUI) Velocity. The test samples shall be conditioned at the specified test temperatures in Section 3.5.3. The test shall be conducted in accordance with DTL13038145, Appendix A, Electronic Pressure, Velocity and Action Time (EPVAT) Test Procedure.

4.5.4 (CUI) Action time. The test samples shall be conditioned at the specified temperatures. The test shall be conducted in accordance with DTL13038145, Appendix A, Electronic Pressure, Velocity and Action Time (EPVAT) Test Procedure.

4.5.5 (CUI) Dispersion. The test shall be conducted in accordance with DTL13038145, Appendix C, Accuracy (Dispersion) Test Procedure, with the following modification:

a. Three test barrels shall be used. The sample amount shall be divided equally between the test barrels.

b. When applicable, three M240 weapons shall be used. The sample amount shall be divided equally between the weapons.

c. Ten round targets shall be used. The targets shall be of a size applicable to the expected dispersion of the bullet holes. The targets shall be located 100 meters from the muzzle of the test barrel.

4.5.6 (CUI) Cyclic rate. The cyclic rates (rounds fired per minute) shall be measured using an approved procedure during each function and casualty test conditioned at temperatures specified in Section 3.5.14. The sample quantities shall be divided equally between three weapons for Design Verification and First Article Testing, and between two weapons for Conformance Inspection. Cartridges shall be fired using 30 round belts in full automatic mode.

Results will be averaged over all weapons at each temperature. Observance for cyclic rate shall be done during function and casualty testing.

4.5.7 (CUI) Noise. The Noise test shall be conducted in accordance with TOP 1-2-608, Impulse Noise Test. Testing shall be conducted in an area free of any sound-reflecting surfaces within 15 meters. For all test firings, the shooter shall fire from the prone position from the shoulder using the M240 machine gun. Four microphones shall be placed.

a. Approximately 15.2 cm from the shooter’s left ear (firing right-handed)

b. Five meters to the rear of the muzzle (180º referenced from the LOF) at 1.5 meters above the ground.

c. Five meters to the left rear of the muzzle (225º referenced from the LOF) at 1.5

d. Five meters to the left side of the muzzle (270º referenced from the LOF) at 1.5

Simultaneous analysis of impulse noise levels shall be made at all four locations. Five single shots of test ammunition and five rounds of standard M80 Ball ammunition shall be fired single shot.

4.5.8 (CUI) Bullet integrity. A paper sheet (1.83 meters x 1.83 meters minimum) shall be stretched tightly over a rigid frame. The sheet shall be placed perpendicular to the barrel of the weapon, 5 meters from the muzzle. The sheet shall be replaced after each weapon at each temperature (or as appropriately needed). An approved alternate rolling target may be used in lieu of a rigid target.