International Traffic in Arms Regulations - ITAR

The U.S. Department of State through the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) administers the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (22 CFR §§120-130), or “ITAR,” which regulate items and information inherently military in design, purpose, or use. Referred to as “defense articles,” such items are found on the U.S. Munitions List (USML), including technical data recorded or stored in any physical form, models, mockups, or other items that reveal technical data directly relating to items designated in the USML. Basic marketing information on function or purpose, or general system descriptions, are not controlled technical data.

The ITAR further defines Defense Services, which include the furnishing of assistance (including training) to non-US persons, whether or not in the United States, with respect to defense articles, as well as the furnishing of any technical data associated with a defense article.

In 1999, spacecraft and satellites, even if not for military use, were transferred to ITAR control, along with their associated systems and related equipment. In November, 2014, some satellites, spacecraft, and their components were returned to EAR control, although with more robust control than traditional EAR items.

The USML is divided into 22 categories of items and defense articles as listed below.

United States Munitions List Categories

Unless a specific exclusion or exemption applies, licenses are required for the export of a USML-listed item.

Need help?

Contact the MIT Export Control Compliance Team at exportcontrolhelp@mit.edu, or by phone at 617-253-2762 (Janet Johnston).