Attachment 05_MIL-STD-1168C.pdf

MIL-STD-1168C

11 March 2014

SUPERSEDING

MIL-STD-1168B

10 June 1998

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

STANDARD PRACTICE

AMMUNITION LOT NUMBERING AND

AMMUNITION DATA CARD

AMSC A7313 FSC 1395

DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

NOT MEASUREMENT

SENSITIVE

Source: https://assist.dla.mil -- Downloaded: 2023-01-30T20:25Z Check the source to verify that this is the current version before use.

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FOREWORD

1. This Military Standard is approved for use by all Departments and Agencies of the

Department of Defense.

2. This standard covers the requirements for ammunition lot numbering and ammunition data cards.

3. The purpose of lot numbering ammunition items and creation of ammunition data cards as outlined herein is to provide the identification of homogeneous materiel necessary to ensure accurate control of items during development and experimental stages; during movement of items from production line to production line, from plant to plant, from plant to storage facilities; while at test facility or in the field; for issue to the using services; to enable the proper establishment and maintenance of surveillance records; and to provide a means for properly identifying materiel when withdrawal of defective, deteriorated, hazardous or obsolete ammunition and energetic materiel from service is required. Lot numbering and ammunition data cards also provide documentation and traceability for ammunition lots.

4. Comments, suggestions, or questions on this document shall be addressed to

Commander ARDEC, ATTN: RDAR-QES-E, Picatinny Arsenal, NJ 07806-5000 or emailed to usarmy.picatinny.ardec.list.ardec-stdzn-branch@mail.mil. Since contact information can change, you may want to verify the currency of this address information using the ASSIST Online database at https://assist.dla.mil.

mailto:usarmy.picatinny.ardec.list.ardec-stdzn-branch@mail.mil https://assist.dla.mil/ iii

CONTENTS

PARAGRAPH PAGE

FOREWORD ii

1. SCOPE 1

1.1 Scope 1

1.2 Exceptions 1

2. REFERENCED DOCUMENTS 1

2.1 General 1

2.2 Government documents 1

2.2.1 Specifications, standards, and handbooks 1

2.3 Order of precedence 1

3. DEFINITIONS 1

3.1 Acronyms 1

3.2 Terms and definitions 2

3.2.1 Ammunition 2

3.2.2 Ammunition data card (ADC) 3

3.2.3 Ammunition lot 3

3.2.4 Ammunition lot number 3

3.2.4.1 Manufacturer’s identification symbol 3

3.2.4.2 Year of production 4

3.2.4.3 Month of production 4

3.2.4.4 Interfix number 4

3.2.4.5 Ammunition lot identifier codes 4

3.2.4.6 Sequence number 4

3.2.4.7 Ammunition lot suffix 4

3.2.4.8 Ammunition lot theater indicator 4

3.2.5 Calibration lot 5

3.2.6 Complete round 5

3.2.7 Component lot number 5

3.2.8 Configuration management change 5

3.2.9 Energetic material 5

3.2.10 Functional lot 6

3.2.11 Homogeneity/homogenous material 6

3.2.12 Hybrid lot 6

3.2.13 Interfix series 6

3.2.14 Items of issue 6

3.2.15 Items of a similar nature 6

3.2.16 Lotting 7

3.2.17 Lotting concepts 7

3.2.18 Maintenance operations 7

3.2.19 Manufacturing activity 7

3.2.20 Modification 7

iv

3.2.21 Overhaul 7

3.2.22 Parent lot 8

3.2.23 Procuring activity 8

3.2.24 Propellant lot number 8

3.2.25 Propellant serial number 8

3.2.26 Production line 8

3.2.27 Reference lot 8

3.2.28 Regrouped lot 8

3.2.29 Repair 8

3.2.30 Rework 9

3.2.31 Serial number 9

3.2.32 Sustainment activity 9

4. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 9

4.1 Ammunition lot number - overview 9

4.1.1 Ammunition lot number description and use 9

4.1.2 Mandatory numbering of ammunition lots 10

4.1.3 Required use of complete lot number 11

4.1.4 Changes in lot numbers during assembly 11

4.1.5 Serialized items 11

4.2 Ammunition lot number - manufacturer’s identification

symbol 11

4.2.1 Manufacturer’s identification symbol description 11

4.2.2 Assignment of manufacturer’s identification symbols 12

4.2.3 Listing of manufacturers and their identification symbols 12

4.2.4 Changes in manufacturer’s identification symbols 12

4.3 Ammunition lot number - month and year of production 13

4.3.1 Year of production 13

4.3.2 Month of production 13

4.4 Ammunition lot number - interfix number 14

4.4.1 Lot interfix number description 14

4.4.2 Correctness of interfix numbers 14

4.4.3 Interfix sequences 14

4.4.3.1 Blocks of interfix numbers 14

4.4.4 Actions requiring changes in interfix numbers 15

4.4.5 Changes in interfix for administrative purposes 15

4.4.5.1 Different interfix numbers 15

4.4.5.1.1 Concurrent manufacturing 15

4.4.5.1.2 Development 16

4.4.5.1.3 Same size or caliber items 16

4.4.5.1.3.1 Different type projectiles 17

4.4.5.1.3.2 Different type cartridge cases 17

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4.4.5.1.3.3 Different rounds of the same caliber 17

4.4.5.1.3.4 Different type bombs or rocket motors 17

4.4.5.1.4 New contract 17

4.4.5.1.5 Sequence number exceeds “999” 18

4.4.5.1.6 Change in manufacturer’s identification symbol 18

4.4.6 Changes in interfixes for technical reasons 18

4.4.6.1 Interruptions 18

4.4.6.2 Dismantling operations 18

4.4.6.3 Production line configurations 18

4.4.6.3.1 Request for a single interfix 19

4.4.6.4 Production line modifications 20

4.4.6.4.1 Production line splitting 21

4.4.6.4.2 Production line merging 21

4.4.6.5 Same item – new designs 21

4.4.6.6 Explosives and chemicals 22

4.4.6.7 Best interest of the Government 22

4.4.7 Documenting changes in interfix numbers 22

4.5 Ammunition lot number - lot sequence number 22

4.5.1 Lot sequence number description 22

4.5.2 Correctness of lot sequence numbers 23

4.5.3 Changes in lot sequence numbers 23

4.5.3.1 For administrative purposes 23

4.5.3.1.1 Time 23

4.5.3.1.2 Quantity 23

4.5.3.2 For technical reasons 23

4.5.3.2.1 Interruptions 23

4.5.3.2.2 Homogeneity 23

4.5.3.2.3 Best interest of the Government 24

4.6 Ammunition lot number - lot suffix 24

4.6.1 Ammunition lot suffix description 24

4.6.2 Use and documentation of suffixing 24

4.6.3 Suffix request 24

4.6.4 Suffix sequence and exceptions 25

4.6.5 Suffixing of lots prior to Government acceptance 25

4.6.6 Suffixing of lots after Government acceptance 26

4.6.7 Assignment of different suffixes 27

4.6.7.1 Navy exception 27

4.6.8 Assignment of suffixes on previous lot number formats 28

4.6.9 Situations which may not require a suffix 28

4.7 Ammunition lot number - lot identifier codes 28

4.7.1 Lot identifier code description 28

4.7.2 Experimental lots 28

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4.7.3 First article lots 29

4.7.4 Functional packed lots 29

4.7.5 Hybrid lot 30

4.7.5.1 Hybrid lot formation 30

4.7.5.2 Hybrid lot authorization 30

4.7.5.3 Hybrid lot identification and documentation 31

4.7.5.4 Multiple hybrid lots 31

4.7.6 Master calibration component lots and master calibration lots 31

4.7.7 Reference lots 31

4.7.8 Special lots 32

4.7.9 Regrouped lots (includes blended propellant lots) 33

4.7.9.1 Regrouped lots – documentation 33

4.7.9.2 Regrouped lots – lot number assignment 33

4.7.9.3 Regrouped lots – Navy lot numbering exceptions 34

4.7.9.4 Regrouped lots – lot number revisions 34

4.8 Ammunition lot number – ammunition lot theater indicators 34

4.8.1 Ammunition lot theater indicator description 34

4.8.2 Ammunition lot theater indicator usage 34

4.8.3 Ammunition lot theater indicator marking and

documentation 36

4.8.4 Ammunition lot theater indicator selection and coordination 36

4.8.5 Previous ammunition lot theater indicators 36

4.9 Ammunition lot number - marking on energetic

components, inert components, complete rounds, and missiles 36

4.9.1 Marking drawings 36

4.9.2 Energetic loaded components 36

4.9.3 Inert components 37

4.9.4 Complete assembled rounds 37

4.9.5 Missiles 37

4.10 Ammunition data cards - description and applicability 37

4.10.1 Description 37

4.10.2 Applicability 38

4.11 Ammunition data card – preparation and instructions 38

4.11.1 Preparation instructions 38

4.11.2 Ammunition data card content 38

4.11.3 Incorrect or missing ADCs 38

4.11.4 New ammunition data cards 38

4.11.5 Data card format for inert items 38

4.11.6 Revised data cards 39

4.11.7 Documenting information pertinent to lots produced under 39 vii special conditions

4.12 Ammunition data card - submission and distribution 39

4.12.1 Distribution of data cards 39

4.12.2 Accompany lot 39

4.12.3 Cards enclosed with shipping document 39

4.12.4 Electronic submission 39

4.12.5 Sample card submission 39

4.12.6 Provisional card to the proving ground 40

4.12.7 Rejected lots 40

4.12.8 Partial lot 40

5. DETAILED REQUIREMENTS 40

5.1 Propellant lot numbers 40

5.1.1 Propellant serial number 41

5.1.2 Propellant lot identifier code placement 41

5.1.3 Reprocessed propellant lots 42

5.1.4 Re-blending of a single lot of propellant 42

5.1.5 Blending of multiple propellant lots 42

6. NOTES 42

6.1 Intended use 42

6.2 Acquisition requirements 42

6.3 Items 43

6.4 Historical information 43

6.5 “Unless otherwise specified” 43

6.6 Method for obtaining required technical data 43

6.7 General responsibilities 44

6.8 Manufacturer’s identification symbol responsibilities 44

6.9 Year and month of production responsibilities 45

6.10 Interfix management responsibilities 45

6.11 Sequence number responsibilities 47

6.12 Suffix responsibilities 47

6.13 Lot identifier code responsibilities 48

6.14 Ammunition data card responsibilities 49

6.15 Partial lot responsibilities 50

6.16 Propellant responsibilities 50

6.17 Ammunition lot theater indicator history 50

6.18 Associated Data Item Descriptions (DIDs) 51

6.19 Method for acquiring ammunition data cards 51

6.20 Subject term (key word) listing 51

6.21 Changes from previous issue 52

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FIGURE PAGE

1. Reference Chart for Ammunition Lot Numbering 53

2. Reference Chart for Propellant Lot Numbering 54

1. SCOPE

1.1 Scope. This standard establishes and describes the lot numbering system and ammunition data card requirements that are used to identify and document items of ammunition (including guided missiles) and energetic materiel during all phases of their life cycles.

1.2 Exceptions. The provisions of this standard do not cover the lot numbering system used on nuclear materiel, assemblies and associated parts designed specifically for nuclear applications.

2. REFERENCED DOCUMENTS.

2.1 General. The documents listed in this section are specified in sections 3, 4, or

5 of this standard. This section does not include documents cited in other sections of this standard 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, 4, and 5 of this standard, whether or not they are listed.

2.2 Government documents.

2.2.1 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 cited in the solicitation or contract.

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE HANDBOOKS

MIL-HDBK-1461 - Ammunition Manufacturers and their

Symbols

(Copies of these documents are available online at http://quicksearch.dla.mil or from the

Standardization Document Order Desk, 700 Robbins Avenue, Building 4D, Philadelphia, PA 19111-5094.)

2.3 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. DEFINITIONS.

3.1 Acronyms. The following acronyms used in this standard are defined as follows:

http://quicksearch.dla.mil/

ACO - Administrative Contracting Officer

ADC - Ammunition Data Card

AIN - Ammunition Information Notice

ATACMS - Army Tactical Missile System

COCO - Contractor Owned Contractor Operated

CORP - Conventional Ordnance Resource Program

DoD - Department of Defense

DODIC - Department of Defense Identification Code

ECP - Engineering Change Proposal

GOCO - Government Owned Contractor Operated

GOGO - Government Owned Government Operated

GMLRS - Guided Missile Large Rocket System

JMC - Joint Munitions Command

LAP - Load, Assemble, and Pack

MHP - Munitions History Program

MIN - Missile Information Notice

NALC - Naval Ammunition Logistics Code

NCAS - Navy Conventional Ammunition Systems

NSN - National Stock Number

PCO - Procuring Contracting Officer

PQM - Product Quality Manager

QAO - Quality Assurance Operations

QASAS - Quality Assurance Specialist Ammunition

Surveillance

QAR - Quality Assurance Representative

RFD - Request for Deviation

RFV - Request for Variance

RFW - Request for Waiver

SMCA - Single Manager for Conventional Ammunition

SWA - Southwest Asia

TB - Technical Bulletin

TDP - Technical Data Package

TOW - Tube-Launched, Optically-Tracked, Wire-Guided

WARP - Worldwide Ammunition-data Repository Program

3.2 Terms and definitions. The following terms and definitions apply to this standard:

3.2.1 Ammunition. An end item, complete round, or materiel component charged with explosives, energetics, propellants, pyrotechnics, or initiating composition for use in connection with defense or offense (including guided missiles and demolitions) as well as ammunition used for training, ceremonial, or non-operational purposes. This includes inert devices that replicate live ammunition, commonly referred to as dummy ammunition, which contain no energetic materials.

3.2.2 Ammunition data card (ADC). An ammunition data card is a record that documents essential information pertaining to the build and lifecycle of an end item lot of ammunition, a component lot of ammunition, energetic material, or a serially numbered item such as a missile. The ADC contains all required data and information pertaining to the creation of the lot and any further changes throughout the lifecycle such as rework, repairs, maintenance, and demilitarization. The ammunition data card is used to provide traceability of energetic or non-energetic end items, assemblies, sub-assemblies, component parts, and compositions/mixtures. It is also used in engineering investigations to isolate defective components and materials. The format of ADCs can vary from a paper record to electronic database entries depending upon the requirements and procuring activity. Unless otherwise specified, the default ADC electronic database is the

Worldwide Ammunition-data Repository Program (WARP), currently located in the

Munitions History Program (MHP) (https://mhpwarp.redstone.army.mil). Applicable information contained in the ADC includes the lot number, item nomenclature, manufacturers, contracts, drawings, specifications, components, temporary configuration management changes (such as waivers, variances, and deviations), engineering change proposals (ECPs), shipment dates, partial shipments, National Stock Numbers (NSNs), and other detailed information.

3.2.3 Ammunition lot. A quantity of homogeneous ammunition (complete rounds, components, propellants, etc.), which is manufactured, assembled, or renovated by one manufacturing activity under uniform conditions and which is expected to function in a uniform manner. An ammunition lot is designated and identified by assignment of an ammunition lot number.

3.2.4 Ammunition lot number. An alpha-numeric designator systematically assigned to each ammunition lot at the time of manufacture or assembly that uniquely identifies the particular ammunition lot. An ammunition lot number consists of a manufacturer’s identification symbol, a year of production, a month of production, an interfix number, and a sequence number. It also can contain an ammunition lot suffix, an ammunition lot identifier code, and an ammunition lot theater indicator. A lot number without an ammunition lot suffix, ammunition lot identifier, and ammunition lot theater indicator is sometimes referred to as the basic lot number or a parent lot. A lot number that has been changed in some way (such as with the addition of a suffix, lot identifier, or theater indicator) but that is still traceable to the parent lot number can be referred to as a revised lot number. When a lot number replaces an existing lot number completely, such that no part of the existing lot number was reused, then it can be said that a new lot number was assigned.

3.2.4.1 Manufacturer’s identification symbol. A combination of one, two, or three alpha-numeric characters used to indicate the unique identity and location of the arsenal, plant, depot, station, contractor, vendor, etc. which manufactured, assembled, regrouped, or loaded a specific item of ammunition or ammunition component. It is the first entry of the lot number preceding the numeric code used to identify the year of production (see

4.2).

https://mhpwarp.redstone.army.mil/

3.2.4.2 Year of production. A numeric code consisting of the last two (2) digits of the calendar year in which the manufacture, assembly, or regrouping of the lot was initiated. This numeric code is placed directly between the manufacturer’s identification symbol and the month of production code (see 4.3.1).

3.2.4.3 Month of production. An alpha code to identify the month that manufacture, assembly, or regrouping of the lot was initiated. This alpha code is placed directly between the year of production and the lot interfix number. A listing of the alpha codes assigned to identify the month of production are contained in 4.3.2.

3.2.4.4 Interfix number. A three (3) digit number ranging from “001” to “999” placed between the month of production code letter and the sequence number. The interfix number is designed to identify those lots in a series which have been produced or assembled by the same manufacturing activity at the same location for the same item, made according to a specific design and manufacturing process using like materials in accordance with certain administrative procedures (see 4.4). The interfix number “000” is reserved for experimental and reference lots only (see 4.7.2 and 4.7.7).

3.2.4.5 Ammunition lot identifier codes. An alpha character placed instead of the hyphen in the ammunition lot number’s tenth position. For propellant lot numbers the character is placed in the eighth position instead of the 0. These codes identify specific lot types such as special lots, first article lots, calibration lots, hybrid lots, etc. These identifier codes are used to ensure the lots are properly identified and to maintain traceability (see 4.7).

3.2.4.6 Sequence number. A number ranging from “001” to “999” placed after the interfix number in an ammunition lot number. The sequence number identifies the lot within the interfix series according to the sequence of production or assembly of the item

(see 4.5).

3.2.4.7 Ammunition lot suffix. An alpha character added directly after the lot sequence number in the 14 th and if applicable 15 th position to denote a rework, or to identify reprocessed propellant lots, etc. Ammunition lot suffixes are always in capital letters and are applied sequentially starting with “A” and continuing through “ZZ.”

Restricted or prohibited alpha characters are listed in 4.6.4. Application and use of the lot suffix to identify changes, modifications, maintenance, etc., to the original lot provides a more efficient method to control the affected portions of the original lot in the event of malfunctions, suspensions, and releases. It is also sometimes referred to as the “alpha suffix” (see 4.6).

3.2.4.8 Ammunition lot theater indicator. The ammunition lot theater indicator is an alpha character placed at the end of the lot number in the 15 th or 16 th position. When the lot theater indicator is used, it is the last part of the lot number. These codes identify items that were exposed to combat conditions and environments and provide a means of tracking which lots were sent to which theaters. This positive identification allows future monitoring of those lots for accelerated deterioration or reductions in performance and also benefits future testing, malfunction investigations, and maintenance functions (see

4.8).

3.2.5 Calibration lot. A calibration lot serves as the current standard against which other lots may be evaluated.

3.2.6 Complete round. An assembly consisting of all component parts required to perform a specific function at the time and under the conditions desired. A complete round may consist of one or more types of components. Types of components include explosive, energetic, propellant, pyrotechnic, and non-energetic components. The term is also used interchangeably with “complete assembled rounds” and “round of ammunition.” It should not be used interchangeably with “item of issue.” All “items of issue” are not necessarily “complete rounds.” Some examples of “complete rounds of ammunition” are:

a. bomb – consisting of all component parts required to function the bomb once.

b. fixed or semi-fixed – consisting of a primer, propelling charge, cartridge case, a projectile and a fuze except when solid projectiles are used.

c. missile – consisting of complete warhead section and a missile body with its associated components and propellants.

d. separate loading – consisting of a primer, propelling charge and except for blank ammunition, a projectile and a fuze.

3.2.7 Component lot number. A component lot number follows the same format as an ammunition lot number as described in 3.2.4. Not all components are energetic or are themselves ammunition, but they may still be required to have an ammunition lot number assigned.

3.2.8 Configuration management change. A configuration management change is a permanent or temporary change proposed to the configuration of an item. Permanent changes are proposed in the form of an engineering change proposal (ECP). Temporary changes to, or exceptions from, the technical data package requirements are requested in the form of a request for variance (RFV), request for deviation (RFD), or a request for waiver (RFW). Which temporary configuration management change to be used will depend upon the requirements of the procuring activity.

3.2.9 Energetic material. For the purposes of this standard, energetic material is considered material which undergoes a chemical reaction as part of the functioning of the ammunition. Energetic materials consist of chemical compounds or mixtures of chemical compounds that are divided into three classes according to use: explosives, propellants, and pyrotechnics.

3.2.10 Functional lot. A quantity of two or more types of cartridges packed in an authorized combination as an item of issue for field use in a weapon system. This is primarily used for functional packs of small caliber ammunition or medium caliber ammunition.

3.2.11 Homogeneity/homogenous material. When all units of product in an ammunition lot have been produced by one manufacturing activity, in one unchanged process, under stable conditions of production, in accordance with the same drawings and specifications and any revisions thereto, a “state of homogeneity” is considered to exist.

This means that the items of ammunition have been manufactured or assembled during a production process which has not been altered by innovation, changes in material sources, retooling (other than routine changes to compensate for normal tool wear or breakage), or interruptions other than those due to the end of the shift, day, or week (e.g.

labor strikes, explosive mishaps).

3.2.12 Hybrid lot. A hybrid lot of ammunition is an item of issue lot consisting of components with various interfix numbers or manufacturing activities, in excess of the number permitted in the item of issue specifications, drawings, or contract.

3.2.13 Interfix series. An interfix series is comprised of multiple ammunition lots manufactured or assembled by the same manufacturing activity under uniform conditions and which are expected to function in a uniform manner. Lots within an interfix series which also share components from a larger component lot are also referred to as sister lots. In an interfix series, the manufacturer’s identification symbol and the interfix number remain constant while the sequence number advances sequentially. In most instances the month of production code will change progressively within an interfix series. Occasionally the year of production will also change.

Example:

XYZ07B006-001

XYZ07B006-002

XYZ07C006-003

XYZ07D006-004 etc.

to XYZ08A006-015

3.2.14 Items of issue. An item of issue is a complete round or primary/major component which is issued to a field activity.

3.2.15 Items of a similar nature. Those items produced or assembled by the same manufacturing activity at the same plant which are basically the same but vary slightly.

This includes items which are used in nearly identical manners but produce different intended results, such as high-explosive, illumination, blank, less-than-lethal, and training rounds for the same weapon. Also included are those items of the same caliber or size which are manufactured or assembled at the same plant.

3.2.16 Lotting. This is the process of creating a lot in accordance with lotting concepts and in accordance with any lot formation restrictions in the item specifications, drawings, or contract. It includes the production or assembly of an item or component, the issuance and marking of a lot number in accordance with this standard, and the documentation of the lot number with an ADC.

3.2.17 Lotting concepts. This incorporates the basic philosophy that the homogenous units of product comprising a lot of ammunition have been produced or assembled at the same plant under consistent conditions and numbered systematically to ensure accurate identification and control of the lot and its major components during their entire life cycle. Moreover, it accepts the theory that all portions of the lot are reasonably identifiable or capable of being identified with the parent lot.

3.2.18 Maintenance operations. For purposes of this standard, the term maintenance operations is used to cover the broad spectrum of all operations involving the care and preservation of ammunition. These primarily occur in the depots, field locations, arsenals, and plants. The operations include but are not limited to adjusting, cleaning, derusting, repainting, remarking, repackaging, reconditioning, reworking, renovating, modifying, overhauling, converting, reprocessing, replacing, repairing, regrouping, inspecting, screening, testing, and other applicable operations.

3.2.19 Manufacturing activity. Within this standard, the term manufacturing activity will be used to identify the Government Owned Government Operated (GOGO), Government Owned Contractor Operated (GOCO), or Contractor Owned Contractor

Operated (COCO) facilities that are engaged in the original manufacture, loading, or assembly of ammunition components, assemblies, or complete rounds. This does not include facilities that only repackage or redistribute material that has been manufactured, loaded, or assembled by a previous facility.

3.2.20 Modification. This operation is accomplished subsequent to the initial production and lotting. It consists of replacing, interchanging or alteration of component parts with a component of a different model number or nomenclature, etc., thereby effecting a change in design, function, or manufacturing procedure. Modifications result in a variation from the parent lot. The modification may be a direct result of engineering changes and specification revisions intended to change design or functional characteristics. When a modification occurs, a suffix will be added to the lot number.

This change is necessary to ensure that the material changes are clearly understood.

3.2.21 Overhaul. The process of reconditioning an item to a completely serviceable condition conforming to the current technical specifications of the item and with a life expectancy equal to similarly configured new equipment. Overhaul specifically includes the disassembling of end items and components, inspecting for defects, replacing parts, performing any necessary machining operations, installing approved engineering and field changes, reassembling the end item and components, applying the proper markings, performing cosmetic reconditioning, and conducting final inspections for conformance. Overhaul also consists of repair or replacement of parts and components that have failed or are of marginal quality due to wear, deterioration, or damage so as to preclude premature failure. When an overhaul is performed, a suffix will be added to the lot number and all overhaul actions will be documented in the “Remarks” section of the ADC. This change is necessary to ensure that the material changes are clearly understood.

3.2.22 Parent lot. The “original” or “basic” lot prior to any changes, modifications, maintenance, etc., which result in either the addition of a lot suffix, a lot identifier code, a lot theater indicator, or the assignment of a completely new lot number.

3.2.23 Procuring activity. Within this standard, the term procuring activity will be used to identify the Government activities that are purchasing the ammunition components, assemblies, or complete rounds. There are multiple procuring activities both across the services and within each service.

3.2.24 Propellant lot number. A unique code systematically assigned to each propellant lot at the time of manufacture, assembly, reprocessing, or blending that identifies the specific propellant lot. The propellant lot number always includes a propellant serial number (see 5.1).

3.2.25 Propellant serial number. A unique five digit numeric code ranging from

"00001" to "99999" (see 6.16.a and 6.16.b). The propellant serial number is critical in providing a means for properly identifying propellant material when withdrawal of defective, deteriorated, hazardous or obsolete propellant from storage or service is required.

3.2.26 Production line. A production line consists of a series of repeatable and sequential operations performed by a single manufacturing activity, the product of which can be grouped into one or a sequence of production lots. The operations can be manual, semi-automated, or automated. Guidance on what constitutes more than one production line or multiple parts of one production line is provided in 4.4.6.3 and 4.4.6.4.

3.2.27 Reference lot. A component lot or end item lot selected for use in ballistic tests where acceptance is based upon a comparison between the reference round performance and the test round performance.

3.2.28 Regrouped lot. A regrouped lot is formed when two (2) or more complete round lots (or item of issue lots) are combined to form one (1) lot, regardless of the type of operations which may or may not be performed in conjunction with the assemblage of these lots. (“Regrouped lots” vary from hybrid lots in that they are assembled from multiple complete round lots as opposed to multiple lots of a component.)

3.2.29 Repair. The reprocessing of nonconforming material in accordance with approved written procedures and operations to reduce, but not completely eliminate, the nonconformance is considered repair. The purpose of repair is to bring nonconforming material into a useable condition. Repair is distinguished from rework in that the item after repair still does not completely conform to all of the applicable drawings, specifications, or contract requirements. Repair must be authorized by the Government typically via temporary configuration management change (RFD/RFW/RFV). The source of the authorization must be annotated on the ADC. All lots or quantities thereof which are repaired will be identified by the assignment of an ammunition lot number suffix in accordance with the provision of this standard. This could apply at the manufacturing activity’s facility prior to Government acceptance if the Government so decides. This addition is necessary to ensure that any changes or variations are clearly and readily identified.

3.2.30 Rework. The process of screening or replacing one or more nonconforming, faulty, or deteriorated components for an end item of issue with similar components of the same nomenclature and model number, returning the item to a fully conforming condition. In addition, reprocessing of propellant lots, repackaging, inspection, screening, and radiographic examination will be considered as rework operations. In some instances, economics or other factors may permit a maintenance operation to be designated as a rework when components of different nomenclatures or model numbers are used to replace the original components or the end item purpose and function may have been altered. All lots or quantities thereof which are reworked will be identified by the assignment of an ammunition lot number suffix in accordance with the provisions of this standard. This could apply at the manufacturing activity’s facility prior to Government acceptance if the Government so decides. This addition is necessary to ensure that any changes or variations are clearly and readily identified. Typically rework procedures are reviewed and approved by the Government prior to implementation.

3.2.31 Serial number. A unique alpha-numeric code assigned for identification and traceability of a single unit or item within a lot. The order of serial numbers is dependent on the manufacturing activity’s assembly processes.

3.2.32 Sustainment activity. Within this standard, the term sustainment activity will be used to identify the wide variety of activities which perform sustainment actions on ammunition components, assemblies, or complete rounds. The activities include:

GOGO facilities, GOCO facilities, COCO facilities, field activities, program offices, depots, plants, and arsenals. Sustainment actions include: renovating, reworking, repairing, overhauling, regrouping, blending, re-blending, applying lot identifier codes, and applying theater indicator codes.

4. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.

4.1 Ammunition lot number - overview.

4.1.1 Ammunition lot number description and use. Lot numbers shall be used for all ammunition end items and their major components, including inert, dummy, or non-energetic items and components. Major components include but are not limited to items such as fins, fuzes, guidance systems, primers, chemical agents, and energetic materials.

An exception is propellant lot numbering which is described in 5.1. The ammunition lot number shall consist of a manufacturer’s identification symbol, a numeric code showing the year of production, an alpha code representing the month of production, a lot interfix number followed by a hyphen, and a lot sequence number. When necessary, the lot number can also include one or two alpha characters used as an ammunition lot suffix and a theater indicator. As required, the hyphen is replaced by a lot identifier code. The ammunition lot number shall not exceed sixteen (16) characters in length and no characters shall be separated by spaces. The minimum number of characters used shall be thirteen (13). The following examples, and Figure 1, illustrate the construction of an ammunition lot number.

(a) Manufacturer’s identification symbol

(b) Two (2) digit numeric code identifying the year of production

(c) A single alpha code signifying the month of production

(d) Lot interfix number

(e) Lot sequence number

(f) Ammunition lot suffix (the alpha suffix)

(g) Ammunition lot identifier code which can replace the hyphen

(h) Lot theater indicator – NOTE: “Z” has not been chosen as a lot theater indicator; it is just used here as an example. The current lot theater indicators are Y, W, and T and follow older formatting requirements. See 4.8 for a more detailed description.

4.1.2 Mandatory numbering of ammunition lots. Each lot of ammunition components, ammunition items of issue, energetics, etc., shall have a lot number assigned at the start of manufacture or assembly, regardless of the ultimate disposition of the lot.

This applies regardless of whether it is purchased to a performance specification or a

Technical Data Package (TDP). Lots which have been rejected and then are scheduled for reworking, demilitarization, scrapping, etc. shall have a basic lot number assigned and an associated ADC to ensure proper controls are exercised. Rejected lots that are later sold as commercial items shall also have an associated lot number and an ADC showing the rejected status and the reason for the rejection. The ammunition lot number shall be correctly applied. The applicable lot(s) shall not be accepted if the ammunition lot

AMC97D018-013B

a b c d e f

LS-06E071H001

a b c d g e

LOP14G071-007BDZ

a b c d e f h number is incorrectly applied. Any noted or suspected errors in lot numbers, their formatting, their application, or associated documentation shall be identified for correction (see 6.7.a).

4.1.3 Required use of complete lot number. In reference to individual lots, whether in correspondence, in records, or in marking containers, packages, cartons, etc., the complete lot number shall be used. This includes any associated suffixes, lot identifier codes, and lot theater indicator codes.

4.1.4 Changes in lot numbers during assembly. Unless otherwise specified (see

6.5), as components from various manufacturing activities are processed or combined to the next higher assembly levels, new lot numbers shall be required. If components are assembled into a higher level assembly, then the assembly shall be identified by an appropriate assembly lot number instead of by any of the component lot numbers. The new lot number shall have a manufacturer’s identification symbol that corresponds to the facility currently performing the load, assemble, or pack (LAP) operations. Additionally the lot number shall have the appropriate year of manufacture/assembly, month of production, lot interfix, and sequence numbers that correspond to the LAP operations (see

6.7.b and 6.7.c). The same applies to LAP plants processing propellants, propellant charges and other types of energetics with the exception of propellants used in single granulation propellant charges (see 5.1). The assembly lot number does not replace the component lot number; the component lot numbers are still associated with the components and shall be noted on the ADC to maintain traceability.

Fuze, Point Initiating (PI), Base Detonating (BD), M509A1 Metal Parts (MPTS) –

The metal parts manufacturing activity’s lot number is NNN97F007-001. The

LAP facility loading the fuze shall assign its own lot number to the LAP fuze lot.

(Example: XYZ97G001-001 shall be the LAP lot number for the assembled fuze.)

The assembled fuze shall not retain the NNN97F007-001 lot number identification.

4.1.5 Serialized items. As specified by the contract or TDP, serial numbers shall be consecutively assigned to those ammunition end items or component items which require serialization control. The requirement for serialization can eliminate the requirement for ammunition lot numbering. Any serialization requirements should be interpreted as requirements in addition to the lot numbering requirements, unless it is specifically identified that a lot number is not required (see 6.2, 6.5, and 6.7.e). Serial numbers shall not be repeated on items with the same part number regardless of changes in the lot number.

4.2 Ammunition lot number - manufacturer’s identification symbol.

4.2.1 Manufacturer’s identification symbol description. Manufacturer’s identification symbols shall be all capital letters, and shall not exceed three (3) characters.

An exception is if a one or two character manufacturer’s identification symbol is used, the remaining positions of the three (3) character field shall be filled with hyphens (-), e.g. A--, AB-, etc. Another rare exception is the use of a number in the manufacturer identification symbol such as MA1. This symbol is a part of the ammunition lot number.

It is used to identify the manufacturing activity (such as arsenal, plant, depot, station, private contractors, vendors, etc.), which manufactured, assembled, loaded, or regrouped the specific lot of ammunition. It is used in the marking of the ammunition and the ammunition packaging to ensure the accurate control of ammunition, ammunition components, and energetic material during movement, storage, maintenance, issue and receipt transactions. The applicable lot(s) shall not be accepted if the manufacturer’s identification symbol is incorrectly applied.

4.2.2 Assignment of manufacturer’s identification symbols. Unique manufacturer’s identification symbols shall be assigned to each manufacturing activity engaged in the manufacture or assembly of ammunition, ammunition components, and energetic materials (see 6.8). Each sustainment activity shall also be assigned a unique manufacturer’s identification symbol prior to performance of any rework or maintenance operations (see 6.8). The symbol shall be assigned prior to the start of production and the correct manufacturer’s identification symbol shall be used at all times. Different symbols for each plant shall be assigned to those activities that have more than one location producing ammunition items for the Government.

Aerojet – General Corp., Azusa, CA – symbol “AJA,”

Aerojet – General Corp., Sacramento, CA – symbol “AJL,”

Aerojet – General Corp., Fullerton, CA – symbol “AJD,”

Aerojet – General Corp., Solid Rocket Plant, Sacramento, CA – symbol “AJS.”

Different symbols shall be assigned for individual facilities when the same manufacturing concern has two or more different facilities, even if they are in the same city. Unless otherwise authorized (see 6.5), these provisions also apply to GOGO facilities or contractors who operate GOCO facilities.

4.2.3 Listing of manufacturers and their identification symbols. Manufacturer’s identification symbols are published in MIL-HDBK-1461, titled “Ammunition

Manufacturers and Their Symbols.” An updated, completely revised handbook will be published periodically. This publication contains any and all symbols previously used by or assigned to a manufacturing activity, load plant, depot, or other type of facility.

Manufacturers’ identification symbols are also listed in the WARP database and the list is continually updated as changes occur.

4.2.4 Changes in manufacturer’s identification symbols. Whenever a manufacturer’s identification symbol is changed, the next lot, reflecting the change in symbol, shall reset the interfix and sequence numbers to “001.” If multiple items of a similar nature are being produced in the facility, then the interfix numbers shall be reset and the product numbered in accordance with the block of interfix procedure described in

4.4.3.1, 4.4.5.1.1, and 4.4.5.1.3.3.

A manufacturing activity with the basic identification symbol of “EEE” had manufactured lots EEE97G001-001 through EEE98A003-006, when the identification symbol was changed to “EEF.” The next lot manufactured was numbered EEF98B001-001.

Reasons for the manufacturing identification symbol change shall be annotated in the remarks section of the ADC. Changes in manufacturers’ identification symbols are relatively rare but could be due to the following reasons:

a. When it is learned that a manufacturer’s identification symbol is being duplicated by one or more manufacturing activities; or

b. When a manufacturing activity moves their operations from one city to another or closes out production from one facility to a distinctively different facility, even if they are in the same city; or

c. When a business establishment changes ownership, experiences mergers, alters its name, and the like.

4.3 Ammunition lot number - month and year of production.

4.3.1 Year of production. Each ammunition lot number shall have the year of production inserted after the manufacturer’s identification symbol (see 6.9). The year of production is a two (2) digit code represented by the last two (2) numbers of the year that manufacture, assembly, or regrouping of the lot was initiated. Once initiated, the lot number shall keep the same year code until the lot is completed. There are no spaces between the manufacturer’s identification symbol, the year of production code, and the alpha code used to identify the month of production. The year of production is the start of the manufacturing activity’s operations and not the dates of the sub-component manufacture. The applicable lot(s) shall not be accepted if the year of production is incorrectly applied.

4.3.2 Month of production. Each ammunition lot number shall have the month of production inserted after the year of production code (see 6.9). The month of production is a single alpha code assigned as follows:

January – A July – G

February – B August – H

March – C September – J

April – D October – K

May – E November – L

June – F December – M

The single alpha code reflects the month of the year in which the manufacture, assembly, or regrouping of the lot was initiated. Once initiated the lot number shall keep the same month code until the lot is completed. The month of production is the start of the manufacturing activity’s operations and not the dates of the sub-component manufacture.

There are no spaces between the year of production code, the month of production code and the lot interfix number. A change in the month of production does not necessitate the lot interfix number or the lot sequence number to revert to “001.” Unless otherwise specified (see 6.5) and as applicable, date calculations, such as expiration date or shelf life, shall be calculated from the date of manufacture indicated in the lot number and expire on the last day of the month in the designated year. The applicable lot(s) shall not be accepted if the month of production is incorrectly applied.

4.4 Ammunition lot number - interfix number.

4.4.1 Lot interfix number description. Each ammunition lot number commencing with the first lot produced or assembled shall have an interfix number consisting of three

(3) digits. The interfix number will usually start with “001” and continue through “999.”

Lot interfixes are used to maintain traceability of any significant changes during production. Types of changes include administrative, manufacturing, and configuration changes. The interfix number “000” is reserved for experimental and reference lots only

(see 4.7.2 and 4.7.7).

4.4.2 Correctness of interfix numbers. Correctness of the initial interfix number(s) assignment shall be verified with the master data card repository (such as

WARP) of the procuring activity prior to production (see 6.10 and 6.19). The applicable lot(s) shall not be accepted if the interfix number is incorrectly applied. Guidance on the applicable functional specialists for interfix issues is provided in 6.10.

4.4.3 Interfix sequences. In most instances, assignment of interfix numbers for an item will be in numerical sequence. The interfix number will usually start with “001” and continue through “999.” A standard variation to sequential assignment of interfix numbers is the block of interfix number methodology described in 4.4.3.1. Other interfix sequence exceptions may be permitted (see 6.10.c). Reuse of interfix numbers, such as starting over at “001” in the event the “999” interfix number is reached, by the same manufacturing activity for the same item shall not be allowed unless authorized (see

6.10.c). This shall be annotated on the ADC. (See 4.10 and 4.11 for the WARP data card repository information.)

4.4.3.1 Blocks of interfix numbers. In some cases interfix numbers are not assigned sequentially but are instead assigned in “blocks of interfix numbers.” This primarily occurs when manufacturing activities: produce “items of a similar nature”;

produce the same ammunition item on parallel production lines; or produce items that could easily be confused with each other. The “block of interfix” numbering methodology helps prevent duplication of lot numbers, allows for simplified identification by field users, and helps to avoid use of the wrong type of ammunition in certain given situations. Blocks of interfix numbers may be assigned to “010’s”, “020’s”, or whatever progressions are considered feasible based on procurement, contractual, and production projections. Examples of this process are provided in 4.4.5.1.1 and

4.4.5.1.3.3. Within the designated blocks of interfixes, the interfix numbers shall still be assigned sequentially.

4.4.4 Actions requiring changes in interfix numbers. Under certain conditions, changes to the contract may require a change in interfix number. Changes in design, manufacturing processes, material, production methods, certain administrative procedures, suppliers, etc., shall require a change in the interfix number. For all lots produced after the altered conditions, the interfix number shall index to the next available interfix number or the next assigned interfix number if blocks of interfixes are being used. Interfix numbers may be changed for reasons other than those noted herein when it is considered necessary (see 6.10.g and 6.10.h). Each reason for changing interfix numbers shall be stated in the remarks block of the data cards for the first lot of the new interfix. The reasons for requiring changes in interfixes can be divided into two categories: administrative purposes and technical reasons. The occurrences necessitating changes in interfix numbers are described by category in 4.4.5 and 4.4.6.

4.4.5 Changes in interfix for administrative purposes.

4.4.5.1 Different interfix numbers. Lot interfix numbers shall be different:

a. for similar items (see 3.2.15), or for items which may be confused with one another, made or assembled by the same manufacturing activity at the same location,

b. for different items which are of the same caliber or size, or

c. for situations where it is determined to be in the best interests of the

Government.

Even if there are differences in Department of Defense Identification Codes (DODICs), Naval Ammunition Logistics Code (NALC), NSNs, nomenclature, or model numbers, the above rules still apply. If the items can visually or logistically be confused, then the interfixes shall be different. An example of items that can be logistically confused is if the items have the same basic model number even though they do not look alike (ex. M67 propelling charges vs. an M67 hand grenade). Note: A basic model number is the model number not including any modifiers such as “A1” or “E1” etc.

4.4.5.1.1 Concurrent…