DA Form 4379: Ammunition Malfunction Report Guide – DA Form 4379, officially titled the Ammunition Malfunction Report, is a critical U.S. Army document used to report malfunctions involving conventional ammunition and explosives. It ensures safety, supports investigations, and helps maintain the reliability of the Army’s ammunition stockpile. This form is prescribed by AR 75-1, Malfunctions Involving Ammunition and Explosives.
What Is DA Form 4379 and Its Purpose?
DA Form 4379 documents malfunctions such as duds, misfires, hangfires, premature detonations, or other failures where ammunition does not function as intended. It applies to most Army-designated Class V items (conventional ammunition), excluding guided missiles and large rockets (which use DA Form 4379-1).
The form supports two main reporting phases:
- Preliminary reports (often verbal or quick initial notification, patterned after the form).
- Detailed reports submitted to the Joint Munitions Command (JMC).
Its primary goals are to identify potential defects, enable lot suspensions if needed, prevent accidents, and improve ammunition quality and safety. All malfunctions, including duds and misfires, must be reported.
When to Use DA Form 4379?
Use this form for:
- Misfires, duds, or hangfires.
- Abnormal or premature functioning.
- Any unexpected behavior during firing, handling, storage, or transport.
- Incidents resulting in (or with potential for) injury, equipment damage, or mission impact.
Class A, B, and C malfunctions are defined in AR 75-1 and AR 385-10. Even Class C (less severe) incidents require reporting. Immediate verbal notification to range control or the appropriate authority is often required first, followed by the formal report.
Units must report promptly to JMC Operations Center (contact details in AR 75-1). Failure to report can compromise safety and readiness.
Key Differences: DA Form 4379 vs. DA Form 4379-1
- DA Form 4379: Conventional ammunition (most Class V items, small rockets, etc.).
- DA Form 4379-1: Guided missiles, large rockets, and associated components.
Updated versions (including system-generated DA Form 4379-SG) were released around 2023. Always use the current edition from official sources.
How to Submit DA Form 4379 (Preferred Methods)?
The preferred method is electronic submission through the Munitions History Program (MHP) database using a CAC card at https://mhp.redstone.army.mil.
If MHP is unavailable:
- Complete the fillable PDF.
- Email or mail to JMC (AMSJM–QAS), Rock Island, IL.
- Provide information copies to local/command safety offices, QASAS, and relevant ACOM/ASCC/DRU points of contact.
Download the official form here: DA Form 4379 PDF.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filling Out DA Form 4379
Follow the blocks on the form carefully. Enter “NA,” “not available,” or “unknown” where appropriate. Include as much detail as possible, and attach photos, sketches, fragments (if safe), or other evidence.
Common key sections include:
- Malfunctioning Item details (nomenclature, NSN, lot number, serial number, quantity involved).
- Description of Malfunction (what happened, conditions, environmental factors like temperature/humidity).
- Site/Unit Information.
- Date/Time of Occurrence.
- Casualties and Damage (to personnel, weapons, or equipment).
- Witnesses and Additional Contacts.
- Quantity Remaining from the suspect lot.
- Narrative/Remarks for full details.
Consult your unit ammunition officer, QASAS (Quality Assurance Specialist, Ammunition Surveillance), or range safety personnel for assistance. Detailed block-by-block instructions appear in AR 75-1 and associated training materials.
Importance of Timely and Accurate Reporting
Accurate reports enable JMC to investigate, issue suspensions/restrictions, and prevent widespread issues. They protect soldiers, preserve training readiness, and support stockpile reliability programs. Reports feed into the MHP for broader visibility across the Army.
Local suspensions may occur immediately for safety, with formal JMC actions following.
Best Practices and Resources for U.S. Army Personnel
- Train all range and ammunition handlers on reporting procedures.
- Coordinate with your local ASP (Ammunition Supply Point) and safety office.
- Retain fragments/components safely pending disposition instructions.
- Reference primary sources: AR 75-1, DA PAM 75-1 (procedures), and MHP.
For the most current guidance, visit official Army Publishing Directorate (armypubs.army.mil) or contact your QASAS/JMC representative. Proper use of DA Form 4379 strengthens ammunition safety and mission effectiveness across the force.
This article is for informational purposes and does not replace official Army regulations or training. Always consult current AR 75-1 and unit policies.