MIL-STD-461 Testing Services

Achieve confident compliance with rigorous military EMC requirements through Element's comprehensive MIL-STD-461 testing at A2LA and UKAS-accredited labs. From urgent operational requirements to complex defense systems, our secure facilities handle classified projects with full ITAR/CUI compliance. Get decades of expertise for reliable validation in all demanding military environments, including ships, submarines, aircraft, and ground systems.

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What is MIL-STD-461 Testing at Element?

MIL-STD-461 testing evaluates electromagnetic compatibility characteristics for military and defense equipment. This testing validates products for use in rugged environments including surface ships (above & below decks), submarines (internal & external to pressure hull), aircraft, space systems, and ground installations. Element provides comprehensive EMC testing across these environments, helping you meet stringent military standards with confidence.

Element testing specialist standing among environmental test chambers in product testing lab

What Can Element Offer You For MIL-STD-461 Testing?

Key tests offered

Element's test laboratories can perform all the tests specified in MIL-STD-461, the most recent edition of which was published in 2015. We offer a full suite of testing that includes:

  • Radiated immunity
  • Radiated emissions to 26.5GHz
  • Radiated RF susceptibility to 18GHz, at 200V/m
  • Transient radiated susceptibility (RS105)
  • Conducted immunity
  • Conducted emissions, including CE106
  • Conducted susceptibility, including CS103, CS104, CS105, CS117, and CS118
  • Bulk current injection

Our MIL-STD-461 services are designed to provide thorough and time-effective defense validation, helping you perform Urgent Operational Requirement (UOR) testing in a short period.

We deliver comprehensive electromagnetic compatibility testing across the full spectrum of military requirements. Our capabilities span radiated and conducted testing, with industry-leading measurement ranges up to 26.5GHz for emissions and 200V/m for RF susceptibility. We offer complete MIL-STD-461 test coverage including specialized requirements like transient susceptibility and bulk current injection.

Components & products we test

Elements' testing capabilities cover all military equipment requiring EMC validation, from small electronic components to complete vehicle systems. We handle equipment for surface ships, submarines, aircraft, space systems, and ground installations. Our specialized facilities accommodate everything from tactical communication devices to complete defense platforms, ensuring comprehensive coverage across the military equipment spectrum.

Methods and solutions offered

We deliver efficient defense validation for urgent operational requirements without compromising standards. Our comprehensive EMC services span from standard testing to specialized RADHAZ, HERO, and HIRF capabilities. With custom test setups and expert guidance, we support you from initial planning through final certification, covering all military and civil aircraft requirements.

Whether your program is for military or civil aircraft, it's important to have a clear understanding of the tests required for compliance before you begin testing. Element's experts have decades of experience in military and aerospace testing, and we have the knowledge to help you understand which tests you will be required to perform.

Cutting-edge equipment we use

Our facilities include a heavy vehicle semi-anechoic chamber (HVSAC) with an 18m x 14m working volume and capacity for 70-ton floor loading. This was originally built to test the Challenger Main Battle tank and has been used for the new generation of naval systems and British army vehicles including the Mastiff and Husky.

Our advanced capabilities include:

  • Heavy vehicle semi-anechoic chamber with 18m x 14m working volume
  • 70-ton floor loading capacity
  • Full EMC testing capabilities
  • Advanced measurement systems
  • Custom test setups for specialized requirements

Which labs offer this service

Element provides MIL-STD-461 testing at multiple A2LA and UKAS-accredited laboratories across the US and UK, backed by a global network of Product Qualification Testing hubs. With a team of 8,500 experts spanning multiple continents, we deliver world-class testing wherever you need it. Element Materials Technology North America is duly registered and able to handle CUI, ITAR, EAR and other similar engagements. We are fully committed to comply with all applicable FAR and DFARs regulations.  

Standards we test to and products we test

These are our most prevalent requests. Don't see what you're looking for? Contact us!
  • MIL-STD-461G (published 2015)
  • MIL-STD-464 (covers environmental effects and levels systems will be subjected to in service)
  • DEF STAN 59-411
  • RTCA DO 160
  • CE Marking requirements
  • E Marking requirements
  • RADHAZ standards
  • HERO requirements
  • HIRF specifications
  • MIL-STD-810

Your Challenges, Our Solutions

Complex standards, simplified compliance

Our comprehensive EMC testing suite covers all MIL-STD-461 requirements, supported by expert guidance to help you achieve compliance efficiently. Our specialized facilities and experienced team ensure successful validation across all military environments, from submarines to aircraft.

Fast-track testing for urgent needs

Time-effective defense validation processes and multiple laboratory locations enable rapid testing response for your urgent operational requirements. Our streamlined procedures help you meet tight deadlines without compromising quality or compliance.

Secure handling for classified projects

Full registration for CUI, ITAR, and EAR, plus compliance with FAR and DFARS regulations ensures your classified projects are handled with appropriate security. Our proven processes protect your sensitive information throughout all phases of the testing program.

Large equipment testing made easy

Our specialized heavy vehicle chamber accommodates equipment up to 70 tons, with proven experience testing major military vehicles including the Challenger Main Battle tank. Our facilities handle the largest defense systems with precision and reliability.

Why Choose Element

Element testing specialist standing among environmental test chambers in product testing lab

Global defense testing network

Multiple accredited laboratories across US and UK providing comprehensive military testing capabilities with consistent results.

Advanced testing capabilities

High-power testing up to 200V/m and emissions testing to 26.5GHz meeting advanced military requirements for modern defense systems.

Comprehensive military expertise

Decades of experience in defense testing, from initial concept through complex validation, with in-depth understanding of military standards.

Secure project management

Full security compliance for classified defense projects with CUI, ITAR, and EAR handling and FAR/DFARS regulation adherence.

70+ tons
testing capacity

in our specialized chamber, supporting the largest military vehicles

200 V/m
RF susceptibility testing capability

meeting advanced military requirements

26.5 GHz
Emissions testing range

delivering industry-leading measurement capabilities

190+
years

Of making certain, with decades of specialized defense testing expertise
Element testing engineer operating specialized equipment for metal component analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between MIL-STD-461 and 464?

MIL-STD-464 covers the environmental effects and levels that systems will be subjected to when in service, whereas MIL-STD-461 outlines the specific test methods which sub-systems and equipment will be qualified against.

MIL-STD-461 testing services we support:

  • EMC testing 
  • CE Marking 
  • E Marking 
  • RADHAZ Testing 
  • Direct Driver Control (DDC) 
  • HERO testing 
  • Immunity Integrity Testing 
  • DEF STAN 59-411 
  • HIRF testing 
  • Test and design support 
  • Custom test set-ups 
  • Advisory Services 
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