The U.S. Government views the sale, export, and re-transfer of defense articles and defense services as an integral part of safeguarding U.S. national security and furthering U.S. foreign policy objectives. The Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC), in accordance with 22 U.S.C. 2778-2780 of the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) (22 CFR Parts 120-130), is charged with controlling the export and temporary import of defense articles and defense services covered by the United States Munitions List (USML).
An export license, issued by the U.S. Government, is required for transfer of certain technology, software, and equipment to non-U.S. persons or entities, whether this transfer takes place inside or outside the United States. Any person who intends to export a defense article must obtain the approval of the Defense Trade Controls prior to the export or temporary import, unless the export or temporary import qualifies for an exemption.