Foreign Military Interactions

In addition to controlling exports of physical items and technical data, the ITAR also regulates the training of foreign military units and forces by U.S. persons.  Such activities are known as “Defense Services”.

SBU faculty are advised to use caution if approached by a member of a foreign military unit with a request for training or aid, whether formal or informal.  Such assistance could come in the form of correspondence courses, technical, educational, or information publications and media of all kinds, training aid, orientation, training exercise, and military advice.

It is important to note that even information residing in the public domain, including the results of fundamental research, would fall under the definition of Defense Service if used to provide training or aid to a foreign military unit or force. 

An SBU Export Controls Officer should be consulted prior to engaging in such activities.  They will help determine if a Defense Service is being engaged in and whether there are any exemptions available.  If none exist the they will assist in applying for the necessary authorization from State Department to proceed in the proposed service.