Defence, Security & Space

UK Export Controls for Defence Products

Navigate UK Strategic Export Control requirements for military and dual-use goods.

UK-wide
Guide summary

Check if your goods need an export licence before selling or sending military or dual-use items abroad. Use the LITE system to apply for licences and keep records for 4 years. Breaking these rules can lead to prison or unlimited fines.

  • Check if your goods are on the Military List or Dual-Use List
  • Use the LITE system to apply for export licences
  • Standard Individual Export Licence takes 20 to 60 working days
  • Register to use an Open General Licence if your goods qualify
  • Keep records of all exports for at least 4 years
  • Unlicensed exports can result in 10 years imprisonment
  • Penalties include unlimited fines for breaking the rules
  • Check if destinations have sanctions before exporting
  • Use the ECJU classification service if unsure about your goods
  • New LITE system is replacing SPIRE for licence applications
On this page
UK-wide

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If you manufacture, broker or export military or dual-use goods, you must comply with UK Strategic Export Controls. The Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) administers the SPIRE licensing system for controlled goods exports.

When you need an export licence

  • Military goods: Items on the Military List (ML1-ML22) including firearms, ammunition, military vehicles, aircraft, and electronics
  • Dual-use goods: Items on the Dual-Use List (Categories 0-9) that have both civilian and military applications
  • Sanctioned destinations: Some destinations require licences regardless of goods type

Penalties for non-compliance

Export control violations are serious criminal offences. Unlicensed export of controlled goods can result in up to 10 years imprisonment and unlimited fines. ECJU conducts audits and can refer cases to HMRC and Border Force for enforcement.

SPIRE to LITE transition

The ECJU is replacing the SPIRE online licensing system with LITE (Licensing for International Trade and Enterprise). LITE went live as a public beta in September 2024 and currently handles Standard Individual Export Licence (SIEL) applications and F680 security approval forms. Other application types are transitioning from SPIRE to LITE.

Administering body
Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) — joint FCDO, DBT, and MOD unit
Licensing system
LITE (replacing SPIRE) — currently live for SIELs and F680s
SIEL processing target
70% within 20 working days, 99% within 60 working days
SIEL actual performance (Q1 2025)
48% within 20 working days, 70% within 60 working days
OGEL registration
No application fee, no processing delay — register and use immediately
Criminal penalty
Up to 10 years imprisonment and unlimited fine
Record keeping
Maintain export records for at least 4 years
  1. 1

    Check if your goods are controlled

    Search the UK Strategic Export Control Lists for your goods on the Military List (ML1–ML22) or Dual-Use List (Categories 0–9). If uncertain, request a free classification rating from the ECJU.

  2. 2

    Check if an Open General Export Licence covers your export

    Review available OGELs on GOV.UK. If your goods, destination, and end-use are covered, register to use the OGEL — no individual application needed.

  3. 3

    Register on LITE

    Create an account on the LITE export licensing system. This is replacing SPIRE for all export licence applications.

  4. 4

    Apply for a Standard Individual Export Licence if needed

    Submit your SIEL application on LITE with goods classification, end-user details, intended use, quantity, and value. Allow 20 to 60 working days for processing.

  5. 5

    Maintain compliance records

    Keep records of all exports for at least 4 years including shipping documents, end-user certificates, and licence conditions.

Export control resources

Use these portals and guidance to check whether your goods are controlled and apply for licences.