The MIL-DTL-117 specification is the military standard for heat-sealable barrier bags used to preserve and protect sensitive equipment. Approved for use by all U.S. Department of Defense agencies, this specification covers heavy-duty, watervaporproof, waterproof, and electrostatic protective bags designed to safeguard mission-critical parts in storage or shipment.
At Royco Packaging, we don’t just meet this specification—we’ve built decades of expertise around it. Since 1980, our team has specialized in custom pouch converting, producing everything from small precision bags for electronics to large format watervaporproof pouches for heavy equipment. Whether you need a standard size or a completely custom configuration, you can trust Royco Packaging to deliver precision, consistency, and confidence with every pouch.
The Nitty-Gritty - Understanding the Details of MIL-DTL-117H
The MIL-DTL-117H specification defines the design, materials, and performance standards for heat-sealable barrier bags used in military preservation programs. Interpreting the requirements in your specific contract can be confusing to say the least. When in doubt, call or contact us for expert guidance.
Bags are available in four duty levels (Types I–IV) depending on the protection required:
- Type I – Heavy Duty
- Type II – Medium Duty
- Type III – Light Duty
- Type IV – Extra-Heavy Duty
Each bag type is paired with a Class that describes its performance characteristics:
- Class B: Waterproof
- Class C: Waterproof & Greaseproof
- Class E: Watervaporproof & Greaseproof
- Class F: Watervaporproof, Electrostatic-Protective & Shielding
- Class H: Waterproof, Electrostatic-Protective
Finally, bags are give a style which describes whether they are opaque, transparent, or a combination style.
It’s worth noting that not every combination of Type, Class, and Style is available under the MIL-DTL-117 specification. The quickest way to confirm what can actually be manufactured is to review this chart, which shows all approved pouch constructions and their corresponding barrier materials.
Adding to the complexity, many contracts and packing instructions include multiple acceptable options, leaving it up to the contractor to choose the most suitable configuration. In the end, the right choice depends on the specific application, required protection level, and overall cost considerations. Royco’s specialists can help you navigate these options and select the best fit for your project.
Quality You Can Trust
Each MIL-DTL-117 bag must pass stringent heat-seal strength, visual inspection, and dimensional tolerance tests outlined in MIL-STD-3010. These tests ensure every bag maintains a reliable seal, consistent thickness, and no imperfections like pinholes or delamination.
At Royco Packaging, quality is at the core of everything we do. Every production run is inspected, documented, and tested to ensure compliance and performance under the most demanding conditions. That’s why defense contractors, aerospace suppliers, and government depots trust Royco's pouches for long-term preservation, export packaging, and mission deployment.
Why Choose Royco Packaging
Royco Packaging has decades of hands-on experience converting barrier films into precision heat-sealed bags and tubing that meet or exceed MIL-DTL-117 requirements. We help thousands of customers every year, ranging from small specialty manufacturers to major defense contractors, who choose us for:
- Custom converting for unique dimensions and closure configurations
- Fast turnaround on both small-batch and large-volume runs
- Certified MIL-SPEC barrier materials including MIL-PRF-131, MIL-PRF-121, MIL-PRF-22191, and MIL-PRF-81705
- In-house testing and verification for seal strength and workmanship
- Responsive service and in-house technical knowledge
No matter the scale, every pouch leaving Royco’s floor represents the same promise: Quality manufacturing, certified products, and protection you can count on.
To learn more or request a quote, call 1-877-MIL-SPEC or email Sales@RoycoPackaging.com
Royco Packaging — Mission Critical Protection. Made in the USA.