The Applied Technical Services Family of Companies (ATS FoC) conducts military UAV battery testing in accordance with the UN 38.3 standard. UAVs, or unmanned aerial vehicles, are an important tool in modern military operations. Their ability to function reliably across numerous environments, conditions, and applications is critical to the safety of military personnel and the success of military operations. Our services help manufacturers verify that their batteries comply with UN 38.3 standards.
Why is UN 38.3 Important for UAV Battery Testing?
UN 38.3 outlines the United Nations’ testing requirements to ensure the safety of lithium batteries during transport. It specifies a standardized sequence of mechanical, thermal, electrical, and environmental tests to verify the safety of lithium-ion batteries. These tests include:
- Altitude simulation
- Thermal cycling
- Vibration
- Shock
- Short circuit
- Impact
- Overcharge
- Forced discharge
These tests confirm that lithium batteries can withstand normal transport conditions without igniting, venting, or leaking. For military UAV batteries, UN 38.3 is essential because these high-energy, mission-critical components are shipped, stored, and deployed in diverse environments. Compliance reduces the risk of thermal runaway and other hazards during transport, storage, and use. The UN requires UN 38.3 testing for the following battery types:
- New lithium cell designs
- New battery designs
- Modified battery designs
About Our UN 38.3 Battery Testing Services
Our ISO/IEC 17025-accredited and A2LA-certified labs have the expertise to help UAV manufacturers achieve UN 38.3 compliance. Our experienced technicians and advanced, calibrated equipment ensure professional and timely service. Our services provide several key benefits, including:
- Regulatory acceptance — documented evidence for a battery’s eligibility for transport
- Reduced field risk — fewer transport and in‑service failures.
- Design optimization — targeted fixes before costly redesigns.
- Faster time to market — streamlined testing and reporting.
About the ATS FoC: A Legacy of Service Excellence
Established in 1967, Applied Technical Services began as a small engineering firm in the Atlanta area. Over our decades in business, we have expanded our operations into a Family of Companies, comprising a nationwide network of companies, experts, and facilities specializing in a wide array of testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) services.
The ATS FoC joined SGS, the world’s leading provider of TIC services, in 2026, and our partnership with them and their robust network will improve our ability to serve our clients’ growing needs.
Contact Us
To learn more about how our battery testing services can address your needs, complete a web request or call +1 (888) 287 -5227.
