scope:

This specification covers the general requirements for design and establishes uniform methods for testing cartridges used in cartridge actuated devices. Cartridges designed as stores separation cartridges used in stores separation equipment and single discrete units which are used as electric initiators that are not an integral part (see 6.4.2) of the cartridge design do not fall within the scope of this specification but do fall within the scope of MIL-D-81303 and MIL-I-23659, respectively. For purposes of this specification, the term cartridge includes any assembled unit containing an explosive, propellant, or pyrotechnic material either single or in any combination designed as the energy source for cartridge actuated devices. Laser initiated cartridges, linear shaped charge, explosive energy transfer lines, devices with the cartridge(s) "sealed-in" (see 6.4.1) and their associated ballistic assemblies used in cartridge actuated device application shall fall within the scope of this specification. The purpose of the testing program is to determine performance, safety, soundness of mechanical design, and resistance to environments encountered during storage, handling, and service use. Cartridges must be safe for handling and must not deteriorate to a degree which would render their performance or safety doubtful after being subjected to the testing program of this specification. Beneficial comments (recommendations, additions, deletions) and any pertinent data which may be of use in improving this document should be addressed to: Commanding Officer, Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division Lakehurst, Systems Requirements Department, Code SR3, Lakehurst, NJ 08733-5100, by using the self-addressed Standardization Document Improvement Proposal (DD Form 1426) appearing at the end of this document or by letter.

Cartridge releases are of the following types as specified (see 6.2).

Type I

Safety of handling and installation. Certification as to safety of handling and installation is required prior to any flight of naval aircraft, target drones, or missiles with cartridges installed, or use of the cartridge in the device of application. For requirements see 3.16.1.

Type II

Interim service release. This type of release is required prior to any flights or use of a device containing cartridges involving naval personnel and will be granted in accordance with the provisions of 3.16.2. The Naval Air Systems Command has the prerogative to authorize procurement of cartridges for Fleet use subsequent to a type II release.

Type III A

Final release to service (fully documented). This type of release is required for admission of the cartridges into the naval supply system as a fully documented cartridge (see 3.9). For requirements see 3.16.2.

Type III B

Special release to service (documented by a source control drawing). If the data required for a type III A release are not available, such as proprietary rights and patents, then a type III B release to service for Fleet use is permissible. For requirements for a type III B release see 3.16.2. For documentation requirements for a type III B release see 3.9.

Type IV

Use of approved cartridge in a new application. If a cartridge has previously been granted a type III A or type III B release and is to be used in a new application, type I release is automatic. A type IV release to service for the new application will be granted in accordance with the requirements of 3.16.3.

intended Use:

The cartridges covered by this specification are intended to be used in cartridge actuated devices.