What does "re-export" or "retransfer" within the meaning of ITAR refer to?

The term "re-export" or "retransfer" within the context of the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) refers specifically to the transfer of defense articles to an end use or destination that has not been previously authorized by the relevant governmental authorities. This is crucial to understand because ITAR is designed to control and monitor the flow of military and defense-related materials to ensure they are not diverted to unauthorized parties or uses.

By defining "re-export" in this manner, ITAR emphasizes the importance of adhering to strict regulations regarding who can receive defense articles and for what purposes. This serves to protect national security interests and international agreements. The concept of unauthorized end use or destination highlights the risks involved in the dissemination of sensitive military technologies, making it imperative for those handling these materials to comply with ITAR regulations.

This understanding also underscores that any transfer that alters the originally approved agreements necessitates re-evaluation and potential re-authorization to maintain compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks governing defense exports.