The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) is the United States regulation that controls the manufacture, sale, and distribution of defense and space related articles and services defined in the United States Munitions List (USML).
Any company or nonprofit that handles, manufactures, designs, sells, or distributes items on the USML must be ITAR compliant. The State Department’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) it is Drexel University’s responsibility to establish policies and procedures to ensure compliance with ITAR regulations.
ITAR regulations simply: only U.S. citizens can access items on the USML list. While the State Department can issue exemptions, and there are existing exemptions established for specific purposes, it is imperative that Drexel University researchers, staff and students are aware of this regulation to ensure compliance. You can read the full ITAR regulations on the ITAR Federal Register
Failure to comply with ITAR regulations can result in civil fines up to $500,000 per violation and criminal fines up to $1 million per violation and or 10 years imprisonment per violation.
There are 21 categories of Defense articles. You can see the attached PDF for the list and examples.
If you are unsure whether the item you have is subject to ITAR, the Export Control team has an ITAR Classification Form that you can utilize to receive a determination.
If it is established that you do have an item subject to ITAR controls, you will need to submit a Technology Control Plan for approval and review.