DD Form 61: Request For Nomenclature (2026 Guide) – Updated for 2026: DD Form 61 is the official Department of Defense form used to request nomenclature (item names and type designations) for military equipment, systems, and components. Essential for U.S. military contractors, logisticians, and acquisition professionals.
What is DD Form 61?
DD Form 61, titled “Request for Nomenclature,” is a standardized Department of Defense (DoD) form for requesting the assignment, revision, or cancellation of nomenclature for electronic and other military materiel. Nomenclature combines an item name and a type designator, ensuring consistent identification across DoD systems.
The current edition is dated August 1996, and it remains active for use alongside automated systems like JETDAS (Joint Electronics Type Designation Automated System).
Purpose of DD Form 61
The primary purpose of DD Form 61 is to support configuration management and logistics by formalizing nomenclature requests. It is used for:
- Assigning new nomenclature to systems, subsystems, sets, groups, kits, units, and equipment.
- Revising existing nomenclature when modifications occur.
- Cancelling nomenclature that is no longer needed.
This ensures standardized terminology, improves supply chain efficiency, and maintains accurate technical documentation for U.S. Armed Forces.
Who Needs to Use DD Form 61?
DD Form 61 is primarily used by:
- U.S. military departments and agencies (Army, Navy, Air Force, etc.).
- Defense contractors involved in research, development, and production.
- Logistics and engineering personnel responsible for equipment identification.
It applies to items procured for military use, including modified commercial equipment requiring military identification.
How to Fill Out DD Form 61?
Key sections of the form include:
- Block 1: Originator and Address
- Type of Nomenclature Requested (Assignment, Revision, Cancellation)
- Recommended Item Name and Type Designation
- Functional Description
- Equipment of Which This Item is a Part / Used With
- Technical Data and Security Classification
- Authorized Signature
Detailed instructions are provided in Data Item Description DI-SESS-81254D. For unclassified items, electronic submission via JETDAS is preferred. Classified requests may require hard copy.
DD Form 61 Download – Official Source
Download DD Form 61 PDF (Official ESD WHS link)
Always use the latest version from the Executive Services Directorate (ESD) website.
Related Systems and Standards
DD Form 61 works in conjunction with:
- JETDAS for automated electronic submissions.
- MIL-STD-196 for Joint Electronics Type Designation.
- ASME Y14.100 and Federal Item Name Directory (H-6).
Refer to DoD manuals for full compliance.
Common Questions About DD Form 61
Q: Is DD Form 61 still required in 2026?
A: Yes, it remains the standard form, supplemented by automated tools.
Q: Where do I submit the completed form?
A: Through service-specific channels to the appropriate Department Control Point (DCP) or via JETDAS.
Best Practices for Nomenclature Requests
Provide clear functional descriptions, reference applicable standards, and ensure all technical data is accurate. Use the Federal Item Name Directory when possible for item names. Early coordination with your service nomenclature authority can speed up approval.
For official guidance, contact the Department of the Army Forms Management Branch or your service’s designated point of contact.