DoD issues memo instructing that references point to SAE AMS-STD-595

In November, the Defense Standardization Program Office (DSPO) of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) issued a “Memorandum for Standardization Activities” directing that all references to FED-STD-595C be replaced by references to SAE AMS-STD-595 (“Colors Used in Government Procurement”). Published in February 2017, SAE AMS-STD-595 superseded the now-canceled Fed-STD-595C, and has been adopted by the DoD.

Intended to promote standardization and consistency in the color of items produced for government use, AMS-STD-595 defines a color index system used by, but not limited to, government activities in a format suitable for color identification, color selection, color matching, and quality control inspection. It also describes the designation and use of color media that is available to conduct these activities.

This standard is widely used throughout the DoD, Department of Transportation, and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).  It impacts numerous industries and products, including textiles, shoes, parachutes, signs, aircraft, armor, mechanical parts, adhesives, and more.