CAT I, SRC I, or CIIC 1: Is there a difference?

Ammunition and Explosives (AE) have codes that provide the information on needed security requirements for storage and transportation. Often many use the terms Controlled Inventory Item Code (CIIC), Security Risk Categories (SRC), and Category (CAT) interchangeability without knowing the differences and use between the terms. In this article, I provide an overview of the three terms and their uses. 

The Department of Defense and each of the services provide policies and regulations on the physical security of arms, ammunition, and explosives.

https://www.navfac.navy.mil/navfac_worldwide/specialty_centers/exwc/products_and_services/capital_improvements/dod_lock/SecurityHardware/StorageMatrix.html

Controlled Inventory Item Code (CIIC)

First is CIIC which is a one-position alphabetic/numeric code, which indicates the security classification, security risk, or pilferage controls required for storage and transportation of DOD assets. These codes identify the extent and the required type of special handling due to the classification or special characteristics of the assets.

Classified Items Code: A code indicating the materiel requires protection in the interest of national security under the provisions of the Information Security Program. Codes designated for munitions are:

C-   Confidential. Harpoon Missile

Sensitive Items Code: Material, which requires a high degree of protection and control due to statutory requirements or regulations, with Security Risk Categories (SRC) found in DoD 5100.76-M, Physical Security of Sensitive Conventional Arms, Ammunition, and Explosives.

The most common codes used for ammunition are:

1-    Highest Sensitivity (SRC I) – UNCLASSIFIED AA&E. Missile, HEAT Dragon

2-    High Sensitivity (SRC II) – UNCLASSIFIED AA&E. Frag Hand Grenade

3-    Moderate Sensitivity (SRC III) – UNCLASSIFIED AA&E. Longbow Hellfire

4-    Low Sensitivity (SRC IV) – UNCLASSIFIED AA&E. 5.56mm NATO Ctg

Less common are:

6-  Highest Sensitivity (SRC I) – CONFIDENTIAL AA&E. Stinger

7-  Non-Sensitive (SRC-N/A) — UNCLASSIFIED AA&E. .50 Caliber Blank

Pilferage Code: A code indicates the material has ready resale value or civilian application for personal possession and, therefore, is especially subject to theft.

P - Ammunition and explosives. .22 Long Rifle

Security Risk Category (SRC)

The second, SRC, is the numerical value of each risk factor and computation of the overall risk. The calculated Risk Factor Value adds each of the conversion tables, the tables each use a scale of High (1), moderate (2), low (3), and impractical (or None)[4]. Once added, the numerical rating will correspond with a risk factor and the associated SRC.

• Utility: explosive, concussion and fragmentation
• Casualty or Damage Effect: probably cause death to personnel or damage
• Adaptability: Usable and simple to function
• Portability: easily carried or concealed

SRC I calculations are not included since it is specifically defined.

Category (CAT)

Third, categories at the service level, use Decision logic formulas (DLFs) that follow the same SRC Conversion tables. Specific AA&E items in security risk Categories I through IV and provides table for categorizing ammunition and explosive items not specifically listed.

Ammunition and Explosives.

1.    Category I. Explosive complete rounds for Category I missiles and rockets. Nonnuclear man-portable missiles and rockets “in a ready to fire” configuration

2.    Category II. Hand or rifle grenades, high explosives, and white phosphorus. Mines, antitank, or antipersonnel, Explosives used in demolition operations.

3.    Category III. Ammunition, .50 caliber and larger, with explosive-filled projectile, incendiary, and fuzes.

4.    Category IV. Ammunition with non–explosive projectile, illumination, smoke, and tear gas (CS)/chloroacetophenone (CN) (tear-producing)Riot control agents, 100-pound package or less.

A realistic assessment of risk in transportation and storage for DoD assets are based on the prevention loss, theft, vandalism, or damage in transit. Performing analysis allows for prioritizing assets and adequate storage and in-transit protection. Controlled Inventory Item Codes (CIIC), Security Risk Categories (SRC), and service Categories (CAT) provide predetermined security classification, security risk, and pilferage controls for storage locations and in-transit transportation. While each of the terms is interchangeable, they each have their unique meaning.

References

DoDM 5100.76 Physical Security of Sensitive Conventional Arms, Ammunition, and Explosives (AA&E). Cleared for public release.

GAO-19-118 Actions Needed to Enhance the Security of High-Risk Ammunition at Storage Locations. Report to Congressional Committees.