MIL-DTL-38999 Series I, II, and III Connectors, 38999 Derivatives, and Custom Accessories
The Original MIL-SPEC Connectors for Modern Harsh Environments
Amphenol was one of the initial developers of MIL-DTL-38999 when the specification was developed in the 1970s. It was then that the Scintilla division of the Bendix Corporation, later incorporated into Amphenol Aerospace, was a key player in the development of MIL-C-38999, which evolved into MIL-DTL-38999 Series I. Bendix also developed the low-profile Bendix JT connectors that became standardized as MIL-DTL-38999 Series II and was instrumental in the development of MIL-DTL-38999 Series III.
The breakthroughs in miniaturization, high-density contact arrangements, and environmental sealing achieved through these connectors became industry-standard features in interconnect technology that are used throughout high-performance military and aerospace applications to this day. Our MIL-SPEC Qualified Connectors, including MIL-DTL-38999 Series I, Series II, and Series III; MIL-DTL-26482 Series II; MIL-DTL-83723; MIL-DTL-5015; and MIL-DTL-22992 Class L connectors, are designed to meet the most rigorous standards for performance and reliability in harsh environments.
With a major role in the development of modern interconnect systems, Amphenol circular MIL-SPEC connectors have been trusted to deliver harsh environment connectivity solutions for mission-critical systems for decades.
Mil-Spec Derivatives
Printed Circuit Board Connectors
High Speed
EMI/EMP Filter Protection
Hermetic/Sealed
Lanyard Release / Quick Disconnect Connectors
Custom Designs and Accessories
What are MIL-SPEC connectors?
MIL-SPEC connectors, or Military Specification connectors or MIL-standard connectors, are ruggedized circular electrical connectors designed to meet the demanding connection requirements of military and aerospace applications. These connectors provide unwavering power and signal connectivity in harsh environments for mission-critical systems that cannot fail under any circumstances. Common applications for MIL-SPEC connectors include military ground vehicles, aircraft, naval ships, communications equipment, and other mission-critical systems.
Because they’re intended to operate without failure in the harshest environments, including desert, mountainous, and lush landscapes throughout the world, littoral and deep ocean waters, high altitudes, and space, these connectors are constructed from premium aerospace-grade materials. This includes but isn’t limited to, high-quality metal alloys such as 6061-T6 aluminum, passivated stainless steel, and composite materials to enhance strength and corrosion resistance in the face of high vibrations, moisture, dust, electromagnetic interference, and other environmental threats to system integrity.
Industry Leading Connector Innovation
Amphenol Aerospace offers a comprehensive range of MIL-SPEC connectors and MIL-SPEC derivative connectors including micro-miniature connectors, EMI and EMP filter connectors, and hermetic and epoxy-sealed connectors to meet any interconnectivity challenge in harsh environments. Amphenol Aerospace has extensive experience manufacturing MIL-SPEC connectors for the Military and Aerospace markets going back to World War II during the early days of defense standardization. Amphenol circular connectors are also ideal for and widely used in commercial air applications and are trusted by major airlines and manufacturers worldwide.
Types of MIL-SPEC connectors
MIL-SPEC connectors are manufactured per a variety of military specifications. Some of the most popular MIL-SPECs include the following:
MIL-DTL-38999 |
MIL-DTL-38999, otherwise known as D38999 or 38999, are high-density, circular connectors with threaded or bayonet coupling, available with crimp or solder contacts in various contact arrangements. D38999 connectors are designed for environmental resistance with an operational temperature range of −65 to +200 °C ( -85 to 392 °F) and are one of the most popular and widely used MIL-SPEC connectors on the market for both military and commercial aerospace applications due to their versatility and reliability.
There are several series of MIL-DTL-38999 connectors:
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MIL-DTL-5015 |
MIL-DTL-5015 circular connectors feature threaded coupling and single-key/keyway polarization with a variety of shell sizes and insert arrangements to accommodate a range of wire and cable types. These connectors are widely used in applications that require dependable electrical connections in harsh environments. They’re popular as power connectors for high power and high voltage applications due to their robust construction and ability to handle high currents. |
MIL-DTL-26482 |
MIL-DTL-26482 connectors are miniature bayonet connectors with quick disconnect features. These connectors are used in applications that require quick, secure connections that are resistant to vibration and have excellent environmental sealing. |
MIL-DTL-83723 |
MIL-DTL-83723 circular connectors feature threaded coupling and offer configurations for general-purpose (Class G), high-temperature (Class H), and firewall applications (Class K). They are known for their durability, corrosion resistance, and ability to maintain secure connections under vibration and mechanical stress. They’re compatible with a wide range of wiring needs due to a range of shell styles, sizes, and contact arrangements. |
MIL-DTL-22992 |
MIL-DTL-22992 connectors are heavy-duty circular connectors with threaded coupling for power and signal applications. The Class L variant features robust construction, high current capacity between 40 and 200 amperes, and resistance to harsh environments that make it ideal for heavy-duty power distribution. |
MIL-SPEC Connector Derivatives
Amphenol doesn’t just offer connectors within standard MIL-SPEC boundaries; customization beyond MIL-SPEC standards to craft any interconnect solution to meet your unique needs is available through our 38999 Plus catalog.
Whether it’s power connectors, signal connectors, or high-speed connectors, 38999 Plus presents a massive inventory of MIL-SPEC styles and options to overcome any interconnect challenges.
Applications
- Military Aircraft
- Commercial Aircraft
- Naval Surface Ships
- Submarines
- Ground Vehicles
- Missile Systems
- Unmanned Vehicles
- Electric Military Vehicles
- Satellites
- Spacecraft
- Avionics Systems
- In-Flight Entertainment Systems
- Landing Systems
- Environmental Control Systems
- Fuel Management Systems
- Refueling Systems
- Power Distribution Systems
- Aircraft Braking Systems
- Communication Systems
- Cabin and Exterior Lighting
- Battery Management Systems