scope:

Purpose.

This part of MIL-HDBK-240 provides the procedures by which the hazards of electromagnetic radiation to ordnance (HERO) margins defined in MIL-STD-464 are verified. It covers HERO testing for all Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard ordnance and support equipment for all mission areas. Although intended primarily for use by Department of Defense (DoD) HERO test activities, this part of the handbook provides a consolidation of "corporate knowledge" about the subject that should be of interest to procurement authorities and system developers.

Background.

There are four specific objectives of this handbook:

a. Document HERO Joint-Service test methodology.

b. Promote test standardization.

c. Identify alternative techniques and instrumentation.

d. Facilitate the exchange of HERO test data.

Ultimately, HERO test data is used to determine the maximum allowable environment (MAE) for ordnance and weapon systems containing electrically initiated devices (EIDs). MAE information is used to assess HERO risks and develop effective control measures to minimize those risks.

HERO assessments are essentially a determination of how EIDs respond to the electromagnetic environment (EME) that could be encountered by the ordnance throughout its service life. The response can be influenced by three principal factors: (1) EME characteristics, (2) physical configuration(s) of the ordnance, and (3) handling procedures. Each factor should be considered in the context of the stockpile-to-safe separation sequence (S4) (4.2.4).

When defining the operational EME, one should anticipate not only the individual Service EME, but also the EME encountered during Joint operations. The JCIDS Manual states that, "Because all weapons/weapon systems have the potential of being deployed together or employed in Joint environments, weapons and weapon systems will be considered Joint systems within the JCIDS process and may be designated as Joint Requirements Oversight Council (JROC) or Joint Capabilities Board (JCB) Interest." As Joint operations become more commonplace, there is an increased likelihood that weapons from one Service will be exposed to other Services' EME levels. MIL-STD-464 specifies the EME levels for HERO certification.

intended Use:

This handbook can be used by any facility engaged in HERO testing for any of the military departments.