Thermal Camera Export Compliance

Exporting thermal cameras, thermal imagers, infrared cameras, infrared detectors, or infrared sensors to certain countries may be restricted by the United States Government’s thermal camera export restrictions, and many fall under International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All ITAR items are designated by the U.S. Department of State. Some cameras fall under a specific ECCN Code or an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN). ECCN items are governed by the U.S. Department of Commerce “Bureau of Industry and Security”.

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Many countries can purchase uncooled microbolometer-based, 9 Hz thermal cameras without restriction, which depends on the detector sensor size and pixel pitch. For example, a FLaiTek xxx-9, 9 Hz 640 x 480 microbolometer camera with 17 um pixel pitch can be exported to most non-embargoed countries. Thermal cameras with pixel pitch less than 17 um may be an issue as determined by the U.S. Department of State. Thermal imagers with 640 x 480 pixel resolution and up can be purchased by any country except the U.S. Embargoed countries such as North Korea, Iran, Venezuela, etc as long as the frame rate is slowed to 9 Hz 1. Thermal imagers with a frame rate greater than 9Hz are subject to export control regulations. Exporting thermal cameras with a frame rate greater than 9Hz is restricted.

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It is important to note that the law varies from country to country, so it is best to consult with an export expert to learn the exact restrictions and documents needed for export, if any. Violations of ITAR are severe and can result in fines, debarment, and criminal sanctions. If you are looking to export equipment that requires an export license, it is important to note that all parties must supply or obtain the necessary license/documentation before we process and ship your items. If you are already familiar with the export process, please contact us so we can begin verifying your order. The United States Department of Homeland Security publishes current lists of global entities where exportation is authorized. We meticulously verify all information to ensure compliance with export regulations.

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For further information regarding the applicable laws, regulations, and policies please contact:

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US Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS)
Telephone: (202) 482-4811
Website: http://www.bis.doc.gov/

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US Department of State, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, Directorate of Defense Trade Control (DDTC)
Telephone: (202) 663-1282
Website: http://www.pmddtc.state.gov/  

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WARNING: Please note that the information provided on this site is intended to be a general summary of various requirements set forth in multiple regulations and statutes. This information is not meant to provide a conclusive answer regarding the exportability of any specific product, nor should it be used as a basis for making any purchase or shipping decisions. In addition, it is not intended to be a complete listing of all provisions, regulations or statutes relating to the sale of FLaiTek USA infrared products. FLaiTek will make all decisions, including approvals of orders, shipping instructions and license requirements based upon an independent review of the facts and circumstances of each order. Hence, this information should only be used to provide potential customers with a general overview of the regulatory framework relating to FLaiTek’s infrared products and should not be relied upon for any other purpose. It is strongly recommended that you seek your own counsel for advice regarding the export, re-export, retransfer and import of any infrared product before making a purchase decision.

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