U.S. military has new authentication markings for microcircuits WASHINGTON, Nov. 1 (UPI) -- The U.S. Defense Logistics Agency has introduced a new authentication marking requirement for microcircuits to protect against counterfeit parts. Now required is a deoxyribonucleic acid authentication marking for future procurements of items falling within Federal Supply Class 5962, Electronic Microcircuits. "Implementation of this new requirement will reduce the risk of counterfeit parts entering the DLA's supply chain," said Chris Metz, chief of the Technical and Quality Policy division for DLA Logistics Operations. DLA uses a number of tools to protect its supply chains (and) SigNature DNA marking is now one of those tools. DLA said microcircuits supplied to it must not only have a botanical SigNature DNA mark but the mark must be unique to the supplier or the manufacturer of the part. The mark can be clearly visible or invisible on the part or contractor's ink can be infused with the DNA marking material and applied to the part. The use of DNA marking of microcircuits, which are used in many U.S. weapons systems, could later be required for other products, the agency indicated. It also said additional marking systems will also be evaluated for use.