Overview
The United States Department of Defense and its branches follow the MIL-STD-461 EMC test standard. This standard defines both the test methods (how the test is to be performed) and the standard test limits used to determine acceptability of electronic unit electromagnetic performance. The latest version is MIL-STD-461H, though MIL-STD-461G is currently more widely followed.
Key Tests in MIL-STD-461
The following test methods are applicable to many aerospace and defence applications:
| Category | Tests |
|---|---|
| Conducted Emissions | CE101, CE102 |
| Conducted Susceptibility | CS101, CS114, CS115, CS116, CS118 |
| Radiated Emissions | RE102 |
| Radiated Susceptibility | RS103 |
See the individual test method pages for detailed guidance and design recommendations.
Purpose (Section 1.1)
This standard establishes interface and associated verification requirements for the control of electromagnetic interference (EMI) emission and susceptibility characteristics of electronic, electrical, and electromechanical equipment and subsystems designed or procured for use by activities and agencies of the Department of Defense (DoD).
This standard is best suited for items with: electronic enclosures no larger than an equipment rack, electrical interconnections that are discrete wiring harnesses between enclosures, and electrical power input derived from prime power sources.
MIL-STD-461G Applicability Matrix (TABLE V)
| Platform | CE101 | CE102 | CS101 | CS114 | CS115 | CS116 | CS118 | RE102 | RS103 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Surface Ships | A | A | A | A | S | A | S | A | A |
| Submarines | A | A | A | A | S | A | S | A | A |
| Aircraft, Army | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | A |
| Aircraft, Navy | L | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | A |
| Aircraft, Air Force | S | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | A |
| Space Systems | S | A | A | A | A | A | S | A | A |
| Ground, Army | S | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | A |
| Ground, Navy | S | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | A |
| Ground, Air Force | S | A | A | A | A | A | A | A | A |
Legend: A = Applicable L = Limited S = Procuring activity must specify
Revisions of MIL-STD-461
Originally issued in 1967, several revisions have been made. Most programs follow MIL-STD-461G, but a new standard MIL-STD-461H has been released and may be applicable. It is still common to see some MIL-STD-461C test methods used in space applications, including at NASA and Boeing, though these methods have been heavily tailored.
| Standard | Release Date |
|---|---|
| MIL-STD-461H | April 17, 2026 |
| MIL-STD-461G | December 11, 2015 |
| MIL-STD-461F | December 10, 2007 |
| MIL-STD-461E | August 20, 1999 |
| MIL-STD-461D | January 11, 1993 |
| MIL-STD-461C | August 04, 1986 |