Who is subject to the regulations? You!
Any and all persons and exports within the United States and exports from the United States are subject to U.S. export regulations. The same regulations govern activities by company personnel and ICs located abroad. As an IC, you must ensure that you follow TigerSwan Company's policies and procedures related to import and export controls. The Import and Export regulations are complex and may be difficult to understand and interpret correctly. As such, the Company has an expert to assist you with import and export matters. Contact Tom Wright with any questions relating to exporting or importing.
It is incumbent upon you to understand your responsibilities and the personal liability you have in your role as an IC. Because there is a good chance that you, as an IC, will regularly interact with Foreign Persons, you should familiarize yourself with the export requirements that govern your activities and associated items and services. Become familiar with all the terms and conditions of your export authority, be aware of the citizenship of the Foreign Nationals you interact with and understand what constitutes a defense service or provision of technical data. It is very easy to accidently cross the line when sharing stories or experiences with Foreign Nationals that seem to have a good understanding of activities you may have participated in during prior military or law enforcement service. You cannot share the things you learned in previous jobs — even if it seems harmless or that the person you are sharing with is already familiar with the topic. Failing to understand your responsibilities could result in an unintentional export — or damage U.S. National Security. Your role as an IC is to help protect the United States — remember that "loose lips sink ships" do not provide information that may hurt you or U.S. Soldiers at a later time.
What is subject to the regulations?
Anything that comes into or leaves the United States is subject to regulations. This refers to all U.S. goods manufactured abroad, foreign goods containing U.S. content or technology and items being re-exported from a foreign country. Do not send items home from your overseas missions without first discussing that with TigerSwan's export expert. Do not sell or trade any equipment you are issued or find during your time overseas. Items that are found during your mission should be turned over to the appropriate authorities. Items that are used in your daily work activities will be controlled by either the
Department of State or the
Department of Commerce. Items such as firearms, ammunition and night vision goggles are controlled by the Department of State. Body armor, vests, and other tactical wear may require an Export Authorization before it can be exported or imported. Do not hand carry or ship any gear including computers, Blackberries, helmets, etc. without express authorization of Tom Wright. It is apparently a common practice in areas such as Iraq and Afghanistan to share or trade equipment among ICs. Engaging in what is known by slang terms as a "drug deal" is unacceptable and will lead to termination. If you are in need of equipment that you have not been issued, check with your program manager about how to legally obtain items you may need.
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