When is ordnance most susceptible to RF environments?

Ordnance is most susceptible to RF (Radio Frequency) environments during assembly, disassembly, handling, loading, and unloading due to several critical factors associated with these activities. During these processes, ordnance is often exposed and not yet secured or fully integrated into their systems. This vulnerability is heightened because the components involved, such as fuses and initiators, may have circuits that can easily pick up RF signals.

RF environments can induce unwanted electrical currents or signals which might trigger malfunctioning or unintended detonation if the ordnance is sensitive to such influences. During assembly and disassembly, the presence of personnel and various tools can create an opportunity for unintentional exposure to RF signals. Moreover, any alterations or movements of components can increase susceptibility to environmental electromagnetic interference.

In contrast, during storage, transport, or final inspections, ordnance is typically secured and less exposed. In these stages, safety protocols are generally more stringent, and the ordnance is often less active or vulnerable to RF influence compared to the handling processes.