Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) / Uniform Identification (UID)

The Department of Defense (DoD) is implementing RFID technology to allow the soldiers to see and manage inventory. This electronic fully automated visibility needs no human intervention. It allows soldiers the ability to receive goods without manually scanning each barcode.

This technology allows for greater asset visibility for the warfighter.  RFID allows the warfighter the certainty of tracking  orders from  manufacture, suppliers, distribution centers, commercial military carriers, supply/theatre depots to the customer on the battlefield. This will avoid loss inventory and repeated purchasing of the same item. The key to effective supply chain management is a smooth collaboration through every node.

Types of tags:

• Active RFID - for freight containers  and air pallets (responsiblity of large corporations)
• Passive RFID - Cases on pallets (all items) passive tagging is what suppliers must focus on.
  • Class 0 and Class 1 tags must adhere to EPC global standards.  Businesses are required to apply tags to DOD shipments in supply contracts.
• UID Tags - Item Packaging

RFID Implementation Plan: Commodities

Commencing January 1, 2005	Commencing January 1, 2006
Class I Subclass - Packaged Operational Rations & Packaged Food	Class I - Subsistence & Gratuitous Health & Comfort Items
Class II Clothing, Individual Equipment, Tools, * Administrative Supplies	Class III - Packaged Petroleum, Lubricants, Oils, Preservatives, Chemicals &  Additives
Class VI - Personal demand Items	Class IV - Construction & Barrier Equipment
Class IX - Repair Parts & Components	Class V - Ammunition of all types
	Class VII - Major End Items
	Class VIII - Medical Materials (includes Pharmaceuticals