The electrostatic discharge test is designed to determine the ability of equipment to perform its intended function without permanent degradation of performance as a result of an air discharged electrostatic pulse. Electrostatic discharge is the result of an unbalanced electrical charge. Typically, it is created by insulator surfaces rubbing together or pulling apart. A transfer of electrostatic charge between bodies (materials, components, etc.) at different electrostatic potentials is caused by direct contact.

Electrostatic discharge testing is specified in the following:

MIL-STD-1399, MIL-E-16400, MIL-S-19500, RTCA/DO-160