For many defense contractors, ITAR compliance has traditionally been treated as a background requirement. It was acknowledged, but not always fully understood or enforced. That is changing quickly. With increased government scrutiny, evolving export control risks, and tighter alignment with cybersecurity frameworks like CMMC, ITAR compliance is becoming a front-line requirement, not just a legal…
The compliance deadline everyone knew was coming finally here and many defense contractors are dangerously behind. Where We Are Right Now: Phase 1 Is Live CMMC Phase 1 launched on November 10, 2025, introducing mandatory Level 1 and Level 2 self-assessments for new DoD solicitations and contracts. Contractors can no longer win new business or…
In an era marked by rapid technological advancement and shifting geopolitical landscapes, the regulation of defense-related exports is more vital than ever. The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) stands as a cornerstone of U.S. national security policy, governing the export and import of military-related articles and services. Understanding ITAR is essential not only for…
CMMC Delays, Backlog Risks, and What Contractors Should Do Now CMMC is no longer a future requirement. It is actively being written into contracts, and enforcement is beginning to take shape across the defense industrial base. But while requirements are moving forward, a new challenge is emerging. There may not be enough assessors to keep…
ITAR vs EAR: What Defense Contractors Need to Know ITAR vs EAR: Key Differences Every Defense Contractor Must Understand Many companies in the defense supply chain struggle to understand whether their products, data, or services fall under ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) or EAR (Export Administration Regulations). This confusion can create serious compliance risks.…
Cybersecurity has become one of the most critical priorities for the U.S. defense supply chain. As cyber threats targeting defense contractors continue to grow, the U.S. government has introduced the CMMC program to strengthen protection of sensitive information. A recent Government Accountability Office (GAO) report examines how the Department of Defense is implementing CMMC and…
Many companies working in the defense industry assume that ITAR registration only applies to large defense manufacturers or organizations exporting weapons systems overseas. The requirement applies much more broadly. Under ITAR, companies involved in the manufacture, export, or provision of defense services related to controlled technologies may be required to register with the U.S. Department…
Vendor Flow Downs: What Contractors Must Require from Their Vendors Many contractors focus heavily on their own cybersecurity requirements when preparing for CMMC or DFARS compliance. However, a major part of compliance often sits outside the organization. It sits in the vendor and subcontractor network. If a vendor handles Federal Contract Information (FCI) or Controlled…
What are ITAR Country Restrictions For many defense contractors, ITAR compliance risks do not start with weapons systems or export shipments. They begin with who can access controlled information and where that information may be transferred. ITAR places strict limits on sharing defense technologies, technical data, and defense services with certain countries and foreign people.…
CMMC is no longer a future requirement or a planning exercise. Phase 1 of the rollout is active and contracting officers are now required to verify CMMC status in SPRS when it appears in a solicitation. This marks a major shift. For the first time, cybersecurity maturity is directly tied to contract eligibility at time…