Manufacturers first familiarise themselves with the technical requirements before creating a prototype. The product must meet these requirements to be of interest to its end users in the Ukrainian Defence Forces.
Technical specifications, by contrast, are drawn up after the prototype has been created, as part of the documentation package required for codification.
Where to access technical requirements
Technical requirements are regulations that define the key features and performance indicators a prototype must meet to satisfy its users. They are issued by the General Staff, who acts as the principal military authority, and the Armed Forces are the end users of the equipment.
To obtain technical requirements for a specific type of weapon or military equipment, manufacturers should contact the Central Directorate for Military Education and Science of the General Staff at +38 044 230 74 88 or cmsd@post.mil.gov.ua.
Yet, not all technical requirements are publicly accessible. Some are classified as 'Restricted', while others carry 'Secret' or 'Top Secret' security clearances.
How to draw up technical specifications
Technical specifications are the core regulatory document defining the requirements for a new serially-produced item of defence materiel. They set out in detail the technical requirements for the item, quality control methods, labelling, packaging, transportation, storage and operation rules, reliability guarantees, and more.
The rules for drafting technical specifications for an item of defence materiel are specified in:
GOST 2.114 95 — an interstate standard within the Unified System of Design Documentation. It lays down the general requirements and rules for developing, formatting, agreeing and approving technical specifications for products (items, materials, substances, etc.).
DSTU N 4486:2005 — a national standard providing guidance and methodologies on the typical structure, presentation and formatting of technical specifications within the design documentation system. It explains how to properly organise and draft specifications in line with current laws and regulations, offering examples for clearer understanding.
Lost technical documentation: How to obtain copies from the MoD
If a company has lost technical documentation previously submitted to the Ministry of Defence for codification, it can request copies by following these steps:
- Send an official letter from the company to the Main Directorate for Lifecycle Support of Arms and Military Equipment at mdalc@mil.ua, listing the documents for which copies are requested.
- Make sure the letter is signed with an electronic digital signature. This is required to verify the company and confirm that the request originates from the rightful organisation rather than third parties.