The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) is a set of U.S. government rules that control the export and import of defense-related articles and services. ITAR aims to ensure that military technology and sensitive information do not fall into the hands of unauthorized foreign entities, thereby protecting national security. Under ITAR, companies and individuals must register with the U.S. State Department and obtain licenses before exporting defense items, which include weapons, military equipment, and related technical data. Violations of ITAR can result in severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment, emphasizing the importance of compliance for businesses involved in the defense industry.