Organizations working in defense, aerospace, and national security often hear the term ITAR. Many assume it only applies to weapons manufacturers. That assumption is wrong.
ITAR, or the International Traffic in Arms Regulations, governs how certain defense-related items, technical data, and services are controlled and shared. If your organization works with military systems, defense technology, or controlled technical data, ITAR may apply to you.
Understanding ITAR is critical. Violations can lead to severe fines, loss of export privileges, and even criminal penalties.
What Is ITAR?
ITAR stands for International Traffic in Arms Regulations. It is a U.S. regulatory framework that controls the export and handling of defense articles and defense services.
ITAR is administered by the U.S. Department of State through the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC). Its purpose is to prevent sensitive defense technology from being transferred to foreign people or foreign countries without authorization.
ITAR applies not only to physical exports but also to technical data, digital files, blueprints, software, and even conversations if controlled information is shared with a foreign person.
What Is Controlled Under ITAR?
ITAR controls items listed on the United States Munitions List (USML). This includes:
- Military weapons and firearms
- Ammunition and explosives
- Military vehicles and aircraft
- Satellites and spacecraft components
- Military electronics
- Technical data related to defense systems
- Defense services such as engineering support
If your organization manufactures, exports, brokers, or stores items on the USML, ITAR likely applies.
ITAR Compliance Maturity Levels Explained
ITAR compliance is not a one-step process. Organizations move through maturity levels as they strengthen governance, security controls, and operational safeguards. Each level builds on the last, moving from basic registration to full technical defense and sustained compliance.
Maturity Level 1: Registration
This is the foundation. Organizations complete DDTC registration, pay required fees, and formally acknowledge ITAR obligations. It establishes legal standing but does not yet demonstrate full operational compliance.
Maturity Level 2: Governance
At this stage, leadership formalizes the ITAR program. Organizations develop an ITAR Program Manual, issue executive memos, and implement board-level oversight. Governance ensures policies, accountability, and internal structure are in place to manage export-controlled data properly.
Maturity Level 3: Technical Defense
This level focuses on operational execution. Organizations implement secure ITAR technology, U.S.-based data storage, controlled access, endpoint security, encryption, documentation, and ongoing compliance monitoring. ITAR is embedded into daily operations and actively enforced.
Conclusion
True ITAR compliance maturity means moving beyond registration and policy creation into fully integrated technical and operational controls. People think just because they pay the fee to the DDTC that they are fully ITAR compliant when they are only 1 step of 3 done. Organizations that progress through all three levels reduce enforcement risk, protect controlled data, and demonstrate serious commitment to export compliance.
ITAR Registration
Organizations manufacturing, exporting, or brokering defense articles must register with DDTC. Registration does not equal authorization to export, but it is required before applying for export licenses.
Export Licensing
If your organization intends to export ITAR-controlled items or share technical data with foreign persons, you must apply for and receive proper export authorization.
Deemed Exports
Sharing ITAR-controlled technical data with a foreign person inside the United States is considered an export. This includes employees, contractors, or visitors who are not U.S. persons.
Compliance controls must account for physical access, digital access, and personnel screening.
What Are ITAR Countries?
ITAR does not publish a simple “approved countries” list. Instead, it identifies prohibited or restricted countries under U.S. arms embargo policies.
Countries subject to U.S. arms embargoes under ITAR typically include:
- China
- Russia
- Iran
- North Korea
- Syria
- Cuba
- Venezuela
- Belarus
These countries are generally prohibited from receiving ITAR-controlled exports.
In addition, certain countries may be restricted under U.S. sanctions programs administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).
It is critical to verify current embargo status through official U.S. government sources because restrictions can change.
ITAR vs EAR
Many organizations confuse ITAR with EAR, the Export Administration Regulations.
ITAR applies to defense articles and services listed on the USML.
EAR applies to dual-use commercial items listed on the Commerce Control List.
Misclassification can result in serious penalties. Proper jurisdiction determination is essential.
ITAR Compliance Requirements
Organizations subject to ITAR must implement strict compliance controls, including:
- Access control to ITAR technical data
- Personnel screening to prevent unauthorized access
- Controlled IT systems and storage
- Visitor and facility controls
- Export licensing procedures
- Documented compliance policies
Many organizations integrate ITAR compliance into broader cybersecurity and information security programs.
Why ITAR Compliance Matters
ITAR violations carry severe consequences:
- Civil penalties exceeding hundreds of thousands of dollars per violation
- Criminal penalties including fines and imprisonment
- Debarment from defense contracts
- Loss of export privileges
For defense contractors, ITAR compliance is not optional. It is foundational to maintaining eligibility for sensitive work.
Preparing for ITAR Compliance
Organizations should:
- Determine if products or services fall under the USML
- Register with DDTC if required
- Implement access controls for ITAR technical data
- Train employees on export control rules
- Conduct regular internal audits
Early preparation reduces risk and protects contract eligibility.
Conclusion
ITAR controls how defense-related items and technical data are handled and exported. It does not have levels like CMMC, but compliance obligations vary based on what your organization manufactures, stores, or shares.
If your organization supports defense programs, understanding ITAR is essential. The risks of non-compliance are significant, but with proper controls, compliance is manageable.
How Brea Networks Helps Defense Contractors Meet ITAR Compliance Requirements
For companies supporting the U.S. Department of Defense, compliance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) is not optional — it is mission-critical. ITAR governs how defense-related technical data is stored, accessed, transmitted, and protected, especially when working within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB).
At Brea Networks, we specialize in helping defense contractors and subcontractors build and operate secure, compliant IT environments that align with ITAR requirements and support long-term regulatory readiness.
A 100% U.S. Person Workforce
One of the foundational requirements of ITAR is controlling access to defense-related technical data. Brea Networks is staffed by 100% U.S. Persons, ensuring your controlled unclassified information and export-controlled data remain protected under ITAR access rules.
ITAR-Compliant Managed IT and Security Services
Brea Networks operates as an ITAR-compliant MSP and MSSP, providing managed services designed specifically for defense contractors that need secure infrastructure, monitoring, and compliance-driven operations.
Secure Operations Built Entirely on GCC High
We operate 100% within Microsoft GCC High, the cloud environment purpose-built for DoD contractors handling sensitive data. This ensures our systems and workflows align with federal expectations and support export-controlled data protection.
FedRAMP Moderate and High Compatible Solutions
All Brea Networks solutions are designed to be ITAR-compatible and based on platforms that meet FedRAMP Moderate or High security baselines. This provides defense contractors with a secure foundation for regulated operations.
Complete ITAR Documentation and Operational Support
Compliance is not just technical — it is procedural. Brea Networks helps contractors develop full ITAR compliance documentation, including:
- ITAR Operations Manuals (typically 175–200 pages)
- Internal policies and governance frameworks
- SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures)
- Forms, workflows, and compliance processes
- Practical systems for managing export-controlled environments
We help ensure your organization can demonstrate compliance, not just claim it.
In-House ITAR Specialists and Legal Support
Brea Networks maintains dedicated ITAR compliance specialists internally, supported by experienced ITAR legal counsel. This gives our clients both the technical and regulatory expertise needed to confidently navigate complex compliance requirements.
International ITAR and Export Permit Experience
Many defense suppliers operate globally. Brea Networks has real-world experience supporting international ITAR compliance, including:
- ITAR export permit setup
- Secure ITAR environments for international organizations
- Support for foreign-owned companies working within U.S. defense regulations
Fast, Executable Compliance Packages
Every contractor’s timeline is different. Brea Networks offers ITAR compliance execution packages that can be delivered as quickly as:
- 1 week under FastTrack requirements
- Up to 90 days for full operational buildout
We scale based on your program needs, contract deadlines, and audit readiness goals.
Proven Experience with the DDTC
We have direct experience supporting compliance activities involving the U.S. Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC), ensuring clients are prepared for real regulatory expectations.
Partner With Brea Networks for ITAR-Ready Operations
Whether you are a prime contractor, subcontractor, or international defense supplier entering the U.S. market, Brea Networks provides the expertise, secure infrastructure, and compliance documentation needed to operate confidently under ITAR.
If your organization needs to establish or strengthen its ITAR compliance posture, our team is ready to help.
Contact Brea Networks today to build a secure, compliant ITAR environment built for the Defense Industrial Base.
CMMC Level 2 Audit Checklist
If your organization handles Controlled Unclassified Information, CMMC Level 2 readiness is not optional. Before an assessment determines your eligibility, make sure your policies, technical controls, and documentation are aligned with NIST SP 800-171 requirements. Download our CMMC Level 2 Audit Checklist to identify gaps, strengthen your evidence, and prepare with confidence before compliance becomes a condition for award.
FAQ: ITAR Compliance and Requirements
What is ITAR and who does it apply to?
ITAR applies to organizations that manufacture, export, broker, or provide services related to defense articles and technical data listed on the United States Munitions List. It commonly affects companies in defense, aerospace, space, engineering, and government contracting.
How do I know if my product is ITAR controlled?
If your product, component, software, or technical data appears on the United States Munitions List, it is ITAR controlled. Proper classification is critical. Misclassification can result in serious penalties.
Does ITAR apply only to exports outside the United States?
No. Sharing ITAR-controlled technical data with a foreign person inside the United States is considered a deemed export. ITAR applies to both physical exports and access to controlled information.
Do we need to register under ITAR even if we do not export?
If your organization manufactures defense articles listed on the USML, registration with DDTC is typically required, even if you do not export. Registration does not grant export permission but is a mandatory first step.
What countries are prohibited under ITAR?
Countries subject to U.S. arms embargoes, such as China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Syria, Cuba, Venezuela, and Belarus, are generally restricted from receiving ITAR-controlled exports. Restrictions can change, so current embargo status should always be verified through official U.S. government sources.
What are the penalties for ITAR violations?
Penalties may include significant civil fines, criminal charges, imprisonment, loss of export privileges, and debarment from defense contracts. Violations can severely impact an organization’s ability to operate in the defense sector.
Is ITAR the same as EAR?
No. ITAR regulates defense articles listed on the USML. EAR regulates dual-use and commercial items listed on the Commerce Control List. Proper jurisdiction determination is essential for compliance.
https://scorecard.cmmccompliance.us/download-audit-checklist-3838
