The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), authorized by the US Department of State, regulates the export of items and information inherently military in design, purpose, or use. This includes both “defense articles” (physical items and technical data) and “defense services” (providing assistance/training to non-US persons with respect to defense articles).

United States Munitions List (USML)

The Department of State has developed a list, the United States Munitions List (USML), that codifies what goods and technical data are controlled under the ITAR. Technical data includes information recorded or stored in any physical form, models, mockups, or other items that reveal technical data directly related to items designated on the USML.

The USML includes 21 broad categories:

     I. Firearms, close assault weapons, and combat shotguns

     II. Guns and armament

     III. Ammunition/ordnance

     IV. Launch vehicles, guided missiles, ballistic missiles, rockets, torpedoes, bombs, and mines

     V. Explosives and energetic materials, propellants, incendiary agents, and their constituents

     VI. Surface vessels of war and special naval equipment

     VII. Ground vehicles

     VIII. Aircraft and related articles

     IX. Military training equipment and training

     X. Personal protective equipment

     XI. Military electronics

     XII. Fire control, laser, imaging, and guidance equipment

     XIII. Materials and miscellaneous articles

     XIV. Toxicological agents, including chemical agents, biological agents, and associated equipment

     XV. Spacecraft and related articles

     XVI. Nuclear weapons related articles

     XVII. Classified articles, technical data, and defense services not otherwise enumerated

     XVIII. Directed energy weapons

     XIX. Gas turbine engines and associated equipment

     XX. Submersion vessels and related articles

     XXI. Articles, technical data, and defense services not other enumerated

Except under very limited circumstances, defense articles and defense services cannot be provided to non-US persons, whether or not they are in the United States, without an export license.

Penalties

The penalties for engaging in restricted activities without the proper export control license can be severe, and individuals can be held personally liable. Both individuals and the University can face criminal and civil penalties if export control violations occur.

Contact Us

If you are working with any item on the USML, you must consult with the ORCI to discuss your specific situation ((616) 331-3197; [email protected]). Our office will determine if an export control license is required, and we will work with you to develop a Technology Control Plan to protect the item/information.