Export controls limit customers, foreign buyers and even foreign lenders' access to technical data. A change of control can need new licences or registrations.
Across the 3 regimes
ESA and EU
EU Dual-Use Regulation: an authorisation is needed to export listed items, including spacecraft and components in Category 9. Military items fall under national lists.
United States
ITAR for spacecraft on USML Category XV; EAR 9x515 for commercial satellites moved off the USML. ITAR registrants must notify a change of ownership.
UK and France
UK: Export Control Order 2008 for military goods, and the UK dual-use list. France: EU dual-use rules plus the war materials regime.
The rest of this page sets out the 3 quoted provisions behind these cells, what is usually negotiated, and what lenders and buyers ask. It is free with a work email, along with the full tools, guides and register downloads.
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Related
- Tool: Export control navigator for deals
- Tool: Satellite finance clause library
- Guide: Export credit for satellites
- Checklist: Launch services agreement checklist
General information on public law and standard terms as at 28 Oct 2026, not legal advice on any contract or transaction. Quoted wording is checked against the official text linked to it.