Guide
How is technical data released to a Foreign Military Sales purchaser?
is the information needed to design, build, operate, repair or modify a , and showing it, telling it or sending it to a foreign person is a release. Data the U.S. Government owns is released under procedures for a defined purpose, with the cost on the . Privately owned data normally goes through commercial channels under an export license, and under only with the owner's authorization.
In general export controlled technology, software, or includes information required for the design, development, production, manufacture, assembly, operation, repair, testing, maintenance, or modification of an article. may also include information on U.S. or international partner readiness and information on internal U.S. government assessments to determine the appropriateness of providing certain defense articles to partners (releasability).
Controlled technology or is considered to be released or disclosed when information is transferred to foreign persons by means of any of the following:
- A visual inspection.
- An oral exchange.
- An application of the technology or data.
- The use of any other medium of communication (e.g., written), including but not limited to, electronic, magnetic, or laser technology.
Controlled transfers may apply to a U.S. person working for a foreign company and, conversely, to foreign persons working for U.S. companies.
What counts as technical data
Government-owned and privately owned data
Unclassified information about a released system
References
SAMM
- SAMM C3.5.4.1 — Definition of Technical Data.
- SAMM C3.5.4.2.1 — Release of United States Government-Owned Technical Data.
- SAMM C3.5.4.2.2 — Release of Privately Owned Technical Data.
- SAMM C3.5.2 — Release of Unclassified Information.
Related
Technical Data
Recorded information of a scientific or technical nature, regardless of form or characteristic. Examples of technical data packages include research and engineering drawings and associated lists, specifications, standards, process sheets, manuals, technical reports, catalog item identifications, and related information and computer software documentation.
SAMM Glossary, as of 12 September 2026
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Defense Article (Foreign Assistance Act; Arms Export Control Act, not including commercial sales subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulation)
Any weapon, weapons system, munition, aircraft, vessel, boat, or other implement of war;
SAMM Glossary, as of 12 September 2026
FMS — Foreign Military Sale
SAMM Acronyms, as of 12 September 2026
Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA)
The legal instrument used by the USG to transfer itemized defense articles, defense services, and design and construction services to foreign partners.
When used under the authorities provided in the Arms Export Control Act for Foreign Military Sales, the LOA is a binding agreement signed by the USG and the foreign partner to transfer such articles and services.
When used under Building Partnership Capacity (BPC) authorities, the BPC LOA is not signed by the Benefitting Partner.
SAMM Glossary, as of 12 September 2026
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TDP — Technical Data Package
SAMM Acronyms, as of 12 September 2026
LOA — Letter of Offer and Acceptance
SAMM Acronyms, as of 12 September 2026
DoD Components (DSCA)
The Office of the Secretary of Defense, the Military Departments, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Combatant Commands, the DoD Office of the Inspector General, the Defense agencies, and DoD field activities.
SAMM Glossary, as of 12 September 2026
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Security Cooperation
Activities undertaken by the DoD to encourage and enable international partners to work with the United States to achieve strategic objectives. It includes all DoD interactions with foreign defense and security establishments, including all DoD-administered security assistance programs, that: build defense and security relationships that promote specific U.S. security interests, including all international armaments cooperation activities and security assistance activities; develop allied and friendly military capabilities for self-defense and multinational operations; and provide U.S. forces with peacetime and contingency access to host nations.
SAMM Glossary, as of 12 September 2026
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