Export controls, handled seriously.
ITAR and EAR requirements are built into our development process from the architecture stage. Access controls, technical data handling, and documentation are structured around eventual DDTC registration — not retrofitted after the fact. This page explains what that means in practice and what we will not claim we have not earned.
The following is informational only and reflects our understanding of the regulatory framework as it applies to our operations. It does not constitute legal advice. All export decisions should be reviewed by qualified export control counsel. Nothing here constitutes a claim of DDTC registration, ITAR certification, or EAR compliance certification — no such certifications exist in those forms.
ITAR and EAR: How we handle them
International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)
ITAR, administered by the State Department's Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC), controls the export of defense articles and services on the United States Munitions List (USML). A kinetic counter-drone system with autonomous engagement capability falls within USML Category XII (Fire Control, Laser, Imaging, and Guidance Equipment) and potentially Category XIII (Auxiliary Military Equipment) depending on configuration.
We design ARES-1 with ITAR classification in mind. This means: US persons only on development activities involving controlled technology, physical and logical access controls on technical data, awareness of what constitutes a "defense service" that would require authorization, and documentation practices consistent with an eventual DDTC registration if international engagement becomes appropriate.
We have not claimed, and do not claim, DDTC registration as a manufacturer. That process is underway as part of our compliance roadmap.
Export Administration Regulations (EAR)
EAR, administered by the Commerce Department's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), controls dual-use items on the Commerce Control List (CCL). Components of our sensor and AI processing stack may fall under EAR jurisdiction depending on their classification and end-use.
Our compliance approach under EAR includes: classification review of all system components and subsystems, end-use and end-user screening for any commercial component procurement, awareness of license exception availability, and documentation of the basis for any export decision.
DSP-5 and Export License Awareness
The DSP-5 (Application for Permanent Export of Unclassified Defense Articles and Related Unclassified Technical Data) is the standard ITAR permanent export license. We understand the process, the documentation requirements, and the timelines involved. Any international engagement would require appropriate authorization before technical data or hardware transfers.
Partner Nation Context
Any future international engagement will be limited to partner nations with established US defense cooperation frameworks. The entries below reflect general regulatory landscape awareness — not any active negotiation, signed agreement, or export authorization. We do not have foreign customers at this time.
Primary market. No export license required for domestic sales to US government and DoD.
Five Eyes partner. UK-US Defense Trade Cooperation Treaty facilitates certain transfers. Requires individual DSP-5 or treaty exemption review.
Five Eyes partner. Australia-US Defense Trade Cooperation Treaty. AUKUS framework may apply to certain platform elements.
Five Eyes partner. Canada-US ITAR exemption (22 CFR 126.5) applies to certain transfers. Review required on a per-item basis.
Five Eyes partner. Individual export license required for USML items. Standard review process applies.
NATO allies may qualify for certain license exceptions. Each ally's specific ITAR/EAR status must be reviewed individually. No blanket NATO exemption applies to USML items.
This list reflects general awareness of the regulatory landscape, not any current or anticipated business relationship with any foreign government. All international engagement requires appropriate US government authorization before proceeding.