DOD INSTRUCTION 5230.24
D
ISTRIBUTION STATEMENTS ON DOD TECHNICAL
INFORMATION
Originating Component: Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering
Effective: January 10, 2023
Releasability: Cleared for public release. Available on the Directives Division Website
at https://www.esd.whs.mil/DD/.
Reissues and Cancels: DoD Instruction 5230.24, “Distribution Statements on Technical
Documents,” August 23, 2012, as amended
Approved by: Heidi Shyu, Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering
Purpose: In accordance with the authority in DoD Directive (DoDD) 5137.02 and pursuant to Section
133a of Title 10, United States Code (U.S.C.), this issuance:
• Establishes policies, assigns responsibilities, and provides procedures for assigning distribution
statements on technical information, including: research, development, test and evaluation (RDT&E);
engineering; acquisition; and sustainment information, to denote the extent to which the technical
information is available for secondary release and distribution without additional approvals or
authorizations.
• Establishes a standard framework and markings for managing, sharing, safeguarding, and
distributing technical information in accordance with national and operational security, privacy, records
management, intellectual property, Federal procurement, and export-control policies, regulations, and
laws.
• Aligns marking procedures for controlled technical information (CTI) in accordance with procedures
described in DoD Instruction (DoDI) 5200.48 and Part 2002 of Title 32, Code of Federal Regulations
(CFR).
• Helps originators of technical information determine to what extent it must be controlled in
accordance with DoDD 5230.25.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1: GENERAL ISSUANCE INFORMATION .............................................................................. 4
1.1. Applicability. .................................................................................................................... 4
1.2. Policy. ............................................................................................................................... 5
SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES ......................................................................................................... 6
2.1. Deputy Chief Technology Officer for Science and Technology (DCTO(S&T)).............. 6
2.2. Administrator, Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC). ...................................... 6
2.3. Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment. ........................................ 6
2.4. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy. ............................................................................ 6
2.5. Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security. .............................................. 6
2.6. General Counsel of the Department of Defense. .............................................................. 7
2.7. Director of Administration and Management. .................................................................. 7
2.8. DoD Component Heads. ................................................................................................... 7
SECTION 3: PROCEDURES ................................................................................................................ 9
3.1. General. ............................................................................................................................. 9
3.2. Public Release of Technical Information. ....................................................................... 11
3.3. Classified Technical Information. ................................................................................... 12
3.4. Unclassified CTI. ............................................................................................................ 12
SECTION 4: DISTRIBUTION STATEMENTS FOR USE ON TECHNICAL INFORMATION ........................ 15
4.1. General. ........................................................................................................................... 15
4.2. Distribution Statements and Notices. .............................................................................. 16
a. Distribution Statement A.............................................................................................. 16
b. Distribution Statement B.............................................................................................. 16
c. Distribution Statement C. ............................................................................................. 16
d. Distribution Statement D. ............................................................................................ 17
e. Distribution Statement E. ............................................................................................. 17
f. Distribution Statement F. .............................................................................................. 17
g. REL TO Notice. ........................................................................................................... 18
4.3. Defense Categories. ........................................................................................................ 18
a. CTI. .............................................................................................................................. 18
b. Contractor Performance Evaluation. ............................................................................ 18
c. Critical Technology. ..................................................................................................... 19
d. Direct Military Support. ............................................................................................... 19
e. Export Controlled. ........................................................................................................ 19
f. Foreign Government Information. ................................................................................ 20
g. International Agreements (IAs). .................................................................................. 20
h. Operations Security. ..................................................................................................... 20
i. Patents and Inventions. ................................................................................................. 21
j. Proprietary Business Information. ................................................................................ 21
k. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR). ............................................................. 21
l. Software Documentation. ............................................................................................. 21
m. Test and Evaluation. ................................................................................................... 21
n. Vulnerability Information. ........................................................................................... 22
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS 3
SECTION 5: THIRD PARTY–IMPOSED MARKINGS ........................................................................... 24
5.1. General. ........................................................................................................................... 24
5.2. Restrictive Markings. ...................................................................................................... 24
a. General. ........................................................................................................................ 24
b. Procurement Contracts. ................................................................................................ 25
c. Instruments Other Than Federal Acquisition Regulation-Based Contracts. ................ 26
d. Other Forms of Proprietary Information. ..................................................................... 26
e. Copyright...................................................................................................................... 26
5.3. Reviewing the Applied Markings. .................................................................................. 27
a. Step 1. ........................................................................................................................... 27
b. Step 2. .......................................................................................................................... 27
c. Step 3. ........................................................................................................................... 27
GLOSSARY ..................................................................................................................................... 29
G.1. Acronyms. ...................................................................................................................... 29
G.2. Definitions. ..................................................................................................................... 29
REFERENCES .................................................................................................................................. 35
TABLES
Table 1. Distribution Statements and Their Corresponding Categories for Use ......................... 23
FIGURES
Figure 1. Example CUI Designation Indicator and Distribution Statement for CTI ................... 14
Figure 2. Example Distribution Statement for CTI ..................................................................... 14
Figure 3. Export-Control Warning ............................................................................................... 20
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 1: GENERAL ISSUANCE INFORMATION 4
SECTION 1: GENERAL ISSUANCE INFORMATION
1.1. APPLICABILITY.
This issuance:
a. Applies to:
(1) OSD, the Military Departments, the Office of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of
Staff and the Joint Staff, the Combatant Commands, the Office of Inspector General of the
Department of Defense, the Defense Agencies, the DoD Field Activities, and all other
organizational entities within the DoD (referred to collectively in this issuance as the “DoD
Components”).
(2) Newly created, revised, or previously unmarked classified and unclassified technical
information originated or managed by all DoD-funded RDT&E programs and DoD technical
information originated or managed by DoD acquisition and sustainment activities, including
system design, development, production, and procurement; sustainment, including logistics,
maintenance, and materiel readiness; or collaboration activities.
(3) Newly created, revised, or previously unmarked information, whether in tangible
(e.g., technical report, model, prototype, blueprint, photograph, plan, instruction, operating
manual) or intangible form (e.g., technical service or visual description), including but not
limited to:
(a) Engineering drawings.
(b) Configuration-management documentation.
(c) Engineering data and associated lists.
(d) Standards.
(e) Specifications.
(f) Technical manuals, reports, and orders.
(g) Blueprints, plans, and instructions.
(h) Computer software and computer software documentation.
(i) Catalog-item identifications.
(j) Data sets, studies and analyses, and other technical information that can be used
or be adapted for use to design, engineer, produce, manufacture, operate, repair, overhaul, or
reproduce any military or space equipment or technology concerning such equipment.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 1: GENERAL ISSUANCE INFORMATION 5
(k) Other types of technical data.
b. Does not apply to technical information categorized as cryptographic and
communications security, communications, and electronic intelligence and such other categories
that may be designated by the; Director, National Security Agency; Chief, Central Security
Service; or the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security.
c. May not be used by the DoD Components as authority to deny information to Congress or
any Federal, State, or local government agency that requires such information for regulatory or
other official government purposes. The DoD Component will notify the recipient when
information is subject to DoD distribution controls.
d. Does not provide authority to withhold from public release unclassified information
regarding DoD operations, policies, activities, or programs, including the costs and evaluations
of performance and reliability of military and space equipment or any other information that is
not exempt from release in accordance with DoDD 5400.07; DoDIs 5200.01, 5230.09, and
5230.29; DoD Manual (DoDM) 5200.01; or DoDM 5230.30.
1.2. POLICY.
The DoD will pursue a coordinated and comprehensive program to promote sharing technical
information to the maximum extent possible to facilitate the efficient use of resources in
accordance with safeguarding requirements as specified in national and DoD information and
operations security policies, procurement regulations, policies, and procedures, including those
related to competitive procurement, regulations, and laws specified in this issuance.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES 6
SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES
2.1. DEPUTY CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(DCTO(S&T)).
Under the authority, direction, and control of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and
Engineering, the DCTO(S&T) takes such actions that may be required to ensure consistent and
appropriate implementation and control of technical information within this issuance’s scope.
2.2. ADMINISTRATOR, DEFENSE TECHNICAL INFORMATION CENTER (DTIC).
Under the authority, direction, and control of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and
Engineering and in addition to the responsibilities in Paragraph 2.8., the Administrator, DTIC:
a. Acts as the DoD scientific and technical information program manager.
b. Maintains permanent documentation of controlling DoD office decisions for classifying
and distributing technical information.
2.3. UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR ACQUISITION AND SUSTAINMENT.
The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment directs implementation of this
issuance in accordance with DoDI 5000.90 to protect technical information developed or used
within the Defense Acquisition System. Such implementation includes technology security and
foreign disclosure reviews by appropriate authorities of technical information proposed for
release to international partners or other external organizations.
2.4. UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR POLICY.
The Under Secretary of Defense for Policy:
a. Establishes DoD policy for international technology transfers, including, but not limited
to, defense-related goods, services, and technologies.
b. Provides policy oversight of DoD activities relating to export controls and technology
transfers.
c. Establishes and oversees the implementation of national and DoD policy for the disclosure
of classified military information and foreign-engagement policy.
2.5. UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR INTELLIGENCE AND SECURITY.
The Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security:
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES 7
a. Integrates the guidance in this issuance into the DoD information security and DoD
operations security policies and programs, as applicable.
b. Exercises acquisition authority, as delegated by the Under Secretary of Defense for
Acquisition and Sustainment, the Director of National Intelligence, or other appropriate official,
for Intelligence, Counterintelligence, and Security technologies, systems, and equipment.
c. Ensures the exercise of acquisition authority by the heads of the Defense Intelligence, CI,
and Defense Security Components is in coordination with the Under Secretary of Defense for
Acquisition and Sustainment.
2.6. GENERAL COUNSEL OF THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE.
The General Counsel of the Department of Defense advises the DoD Components regarding the
statutory and regulatory requirements governing the export or other distribution of technical
information.
2.7. DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT.
The Director of Administration and Management:
a. Issues policy directing that the Washington Headquarters Services Defense Office of
Prepublication and Security Review (DOPSR), or DoD Component public affairs personnel,
properly review technical information submitted for public release clearance in accordance with
DoDI 5230.09 to determine whether Distribution Statement A, as described in Paragraph 4.2.a.,
is appropriate for the technical information.
b. Processes appeals when public release is denied based upon this issuance, in accordance
with DoDI 5230.29.
2.8. DOD COMPONENT HEADS.
The DoD Component heads:
a. Ensure that this issuance is implemented across their respective DoD Components in a
uniform, consistent manner.
b. Ensure the Component’s designation, handling, and decontrolling—including
identification, sharing, marking, safeguarding, storage, distribution, and destruction—of
controlled unclassified information (CUI) is in accordance with DoDI 5200.48.
c. Ensure that the controlling DoD office:
(1) Exercises its inherent U.S. Governmental responsibility to determine the appropriate
marking of controlled technical information in accordance with this issuance, DoDI 5200.48,
DoDI 5230.09, and DoDM 5200.01.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 2: RESPONSIBILITIES 8
(2) Correctly marks and applies the appropriate distribution statement for all technical
information regardless of media or form, including, but not limited to, RDT&E, sustainment, and
logistics information.
d. Establish and maintain active education and training programs to provide a basic
understanding of distribution statements and export-control markings and to inform personnel of
their responsibilities for the proper handling and protection of marked technical information.
e. Ensure that managers of DoD technical programs assign distribution statements to all
technical information originating in their programs.
f. Ensure that contractors and award recipients generating or holding CTI marked with
Distribution Statements B through F comply with the cybersecurity requirements and export-
control requirements directed by Clauses 252.204-7012 and 252.225-7048 of the Defense
Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), respectively.
g. Pursuant to Chapters 29, 31, and 33 of Title 44, U.S.C., and Subchapter B of Chapter XII
of Title 36, CFR, ensure that all records created or received in accordance with this issuance,
regardless of format or medium, are maintained and managed in accordance with DoD
Component records management issuances and National Archives and Records Administration–
approved dispositions to ensure proper maintenance, use, accessibility, and preservation.
h. Integrate operations security into DoD technical information distribution considerations to
protect critical information and indicators associated with DoD technical information, in
accordance with DoDD 5205.02E.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 3: PROCEDURES 9
SECTION 3: PROCEDURES
3.1. GENERAL.
a. All DoD Components generating or responsible for technical information will determine
who is authorized to access the information and apply the appropriate markings before primary
distribution. Distribution statements will be used in addition to applicable classification
markings pursuant to Volume 2 of DoDM 5200.01 and CUI markings pursuant to DoDI 5200.48.
b. DoD distribution statements are not required on technical proposals or similar documents
submitted by contractors seeking DoD funds or contracts; however, markings specified by
applicable acquisition regulations apply.
c. Distribution statements assigned to technical information by the controlling DoD office
control secondary distribution in accordance with Volume 1 of DoDM 3200.14.
d. Technical information supporting acquisition, sustainment, logistics, maintenance, repair,
supply, and RDT&E that is subject to the restrictions of this issuance will be marked,
maintained, distributed, and controlled.
e. Unless otherwise authorized by the controlling DoD office, non-U.S. Government entities
or individuals are strictly prohibited from further distributing technical information subject to the
restrictions in this issuance.
f. All newly created, revised, or previously unmarked classified and unclassified DoD
technical information will be assigned a distribution statement as described in Paragraph 4.2.
g. Distribution Statement X has been cancelled. Instead, use the export-control category
described in Paragraph 4.3.e. Subsequent distribution of formerly Distribution Statement X
information will display Distribution Statement C with export control as the stated reason for the
marking.
h. Selection of the appropriate distribution statement is based on a number of considerations,
including, but not limited to:
(1) Public release procedures specified in Enclosure 3 of DoDI 5230.29.
(2) Export controls in accordance with DoDD 5230.25; Parts 120–130 of Title 22, CFR
(also known and referred to in this issuance as the International Traffic in Arms Regulations
(ITAR)); and Parts 730–774 of Title 15, CFR (also known and referred to in this issuance as the
Export Administration Regulations (EAR)).
(3) Export controls in accordance with Parts 110 and 810 of Title 10, CFR.
(4) Intellectual property and data-rights licenses for contract deliverables as described in
Part 227 of the DFARS and the terms of the applicable transactional instrument.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 3: PROCEDURES 10
(5) Relevant security classification guides, science and technology protection plans,
program protection plans, and technology area protection plans as described in DoDI 5000.83.
i. Technical information in preliminary or working-draft form will be marked with a
temporary notice or distribution statement pending proper security classification and distribution
statement review as required by this issuance.
j. The first page or cover of any technical document will clearly display the distribution
statement including the letter code and full statement described in Section 4, regardless of media
or format.
(1) The distribution statement will appear in Block 12 of the Standard Form (SF) 298,
“Report Documentation Page,” available on the U.S. General Services Administration Website at
https://www.gsa.gov/forms-library/report-documentation-page, in accordance with Volume 1 of
DoDM 3200.14 and DFARS Clause 252.235-7011.
(2) If the technical information is not prepared in hard copy or paper form and is
prepared digitally or in any medium that cannot practicably have a cover or title page, the
appropriate distribution statement will be affixed to all physical and digital items by other means
in as obvious a position as possible. Additionally, an oral presentation of the information,
including voice recordings, will note the distribution statement.
k. Distribution statements will remain in effect until changed or removed by the controlling
DoD office. Removal of or tampering with control markings by unauthorized personnel is
strictly prohibited.
(1) If technical information has been declassified pursuant to Executive Order 13526 and
the DoD Mandatory Declassification Review Program described in DoDM 5230.30, the
distribution statement will be changed to reflect the final release determination.
(2) Technical information that has been reviewed pursuant to the Section 552 of Title 5,
U.S.C. (also known as the Freedom of Information Act), and processed in accordance with
DoDM 5400.07, and Section 2002.44(b) of Title 32, CFR, will be marked with a distribution
statement to reflect the final release determination.
l. Each controlling DoD office will establish and maintain a procedure to review active and
non-archived technical information for which it is responsible in order to increase availability
when conditions permit. When release restrictions no longer apply, the controlling DoD office
will obtain public-release determinations in accordance with DoDI 5230.09 and assign
Distribution Statement A, cancel any other distribution statement, and notify DTIC and all
known holders of the technical information of the change.
m. The controlling DoD office will notify DTIC, other known repositories and authorized
holders promptly so that they can have an authoritative record of controlling DoD office
decisions regarding classification and distribution when:
(1) The controlling DoD office’s address changes.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 3: PROCEDURES 11
(2) The controlling DoD office is redesignated.
(3) Classification markings, U.S. Government data-rights, distribution statements, or
export-control warnings are changed or removed.
n. When possible or appropriate, those parts of a document that contain classified
information or CTI will be prepared as an attachment, addendum, annex, enclosure, or similar
removable section to allow separate distribution of the basic document at the lowest level of
classification and to the widest possible audience.
o. Metadata describing technical information (e.g., title, abstract, keywords) will be written
for the widest possible distribution in accordance with law, regulation, DoD policy, relevant
security classification guides, science and technology protection plans, program protection plans,
technology-area protection plans, or any other guidance pertaining to the withholding or release
of technical information contained therein. When practical, metadata will be written in such a
way that its content is unclassified and can be reviewed and determined by the DOPSR or the
DoD Component public affairs personnel to be appropriate for Distribution Statement A.
p. Unclassified materials in any medium marked with Distribution Statement B, C, D, E, or
F will be handled in accordance with procedures for banner marking, handling, storage,
transmission, decontrol, and destruction described in DoDI 5200.48.
q. When no longer needed, CUI will be destroyed in accordance with DoDI 5200.48.
r. All records, regardless of format or medium, will be maintained and managed pursuant to
National Archives and Records Administration–approved dispositions to ensure the proper
maintenance, use, accessibility, and preservation.
3.2. PUBLIC RELEASE OF TECHNICAL INFORMATION.
a. DoDI 5230.09 requires a review of all DoD information before public release. Except as
required by applicable Federal statutes or regulations or Executive orders, scientific and
technical information resulting from unclassified fundamental research is exempt from
prepublication controls and the review required by DoDI 5230.29.
b. Before submission to the DOPSR, DoD Components will ensure that all required
preliminary reviews are conducted in accordance with DoDI 5230.29.
c. The DOPSR will approve for public release any official DoD information meeting the
publication conditions of DoDI 5230.29. In accordance with DoDI 5230.29, DoD Component
clearance authority may be delegated to the lowest level competent to evaluate the content and
implications of public release of the information.
d. DoD technical information approved for public release will be marked “Distribution
Statement A. Approved for public release: distribution unlimited.”
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 3: PROCEDURES 12
e. Official DoD information, including, but not limited to, audio-visual materials or press
releases that meet the criteria in DoDD 5122.05, will be coordinated through the Office of the
Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs prior to public release.
3.3. CLASSIFIED TECHNICAL INFORMATION.
a. Classified technical information will be marked in accordance with Volume 2 of DoDM
5200.01 and assigned Distribution Statements B, C, D, E, or F. The distribution statement
assigned to classified information will remain after declassification until the controlling DoD
office changes or removes it.
b. If a classified document contains CTI, “CUI Warning Box for Classified Material” will
appear on the first page of the document to alert readers to the presence of CUI. DoD
Components will follow the format as described in DoDI 5200.48.
c. Declassified technical information that has no assigned distribution statement will be
reviewed for possible CTI content and be handled as Distribution Statement E (“Distribution
authorized to DoD Components only”) until the controlling DoD office changes it.
d. Declassified technical information containing CTI will be marked with a “CUI
Designation Indicator” on the first page of the document using the marking and format described
in DoDI 5200.48.
e. Security classification guides will be marked in accordance with DoDM 5200.45.
3.4. UNCLASSIFIED CTI.
a. All unclassified CTI must be marked as CUI in accordance with DoDI 5200.48. DoD
legacy material, including CTI, will not be required to be remarked or redacted while it remains
under DoD control or is accessed online and downloaded for use within the DoD. However, any
such information or new derivative information must be marked as CUI if a careful analysis
determines that it qualifies as CUI.
b. Unclassified CTI originated by or under the control of the DoD will be marked with a
distribution statement.
c. CUI that is not technical information as defined in the Glossary will be marked in
accordance with DoDI 5200.48.
d. Procedures for marking DoD unclassified CTI align with the requirements of DoDI
5200.48. DoD-controlled unclassified technical information will include “CUI” in the banner
and footer of each page and must include a distribution statement. The controlling DoD office
will determine distribution availability in accordance with Paragraph 3.1.h. and select the
appropriate reason and audience for the content.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 3: PROCEDURES 13
e. The first page or cover of any document or material containing CTI will include a CUI
designation indicator as described in DoDI 5200.48. The indicator will include:
(1) Controlled By.
Insert the name of the DoD Component unless the first page or cover is on letterhead
stationery.
(2) Controlled By.
Insert the name of the DoD office.
(3) CUI Category.
For DoD unclassified CTI, the overarching CUI category authorizing the use of
distribution statements is “CTI.”
(4) Distribution Statement.
Insert the letter (B, C, D, E, or F) designating the appropriate distribution statement,
described in Paragraph 4.2.
(5) Point of Contact.
Include the controlling DoD office’s telephone number and/or office mailbox address. It
is good practice to ensure that the telephone number and mailbox address are valid in case of
personnel turnover.
f. Place the indicator at the bottom-right side of the first page or cover page, if applicable, of
all technical information containing CUI, including classified material.
g. Directly beneath and separate from the CUI designation indicator box, affix the
distribution statement in its entirety, including authorized audience, category, date of
determination, and controlling DoD office. See Figures 1 and 2 for examples.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 3: PROCEDURES 14
Figure 1. Example CUI Designation Indicator and Distribution Statement for CTI
Controlled By: OUSD(R&E)
Controlled By: Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
CUI Category: CTI, Proprietary Business Information
Distribution Statement: E
POC: [email protected]
Figure 2. Example Distribution Statement for CTI
Distribution Statement E. Distribution authorized to DoD only; Proprietary Business
Information; 18 OCT 2008. Other requests for this document must be referred to Defense
Advanced Research Projects Agency, ATTN: TIO, 675 North Randolph Street Arlington, VA
22203-2114.
h. For newly originated, revised, or previously unmarked technical information, the
controlling DoD office will determine whether the information contains export-controlled
technical information. DoDD 5230.25, the ITAR, and the EAR provide guidance for making this
determination. Personnel responsible for technology security, foreign disclosure, release
reviews, or export-control analysis may provide additional guidance.
i. All information found to contain export-controlled technical information will be marked
with the export-control warning in Paragraph 4.3.e.(2). Any information so marked must also be
assigned Distribution Statement B, C, D, or E and specify “Export Controlled” as a reason for
the assignment. This information must also include the notice to accompany the release of
export-controlled data specified in DoDD 5230.25. Such information will be released only to
entities qualified to receive export-controlled technical information.
j. All technical information delivered to the U.S. Government that includes
contractor-owned proprietary data or other third-party intellectual property described in
Section 5 will be clearly and legibly marked with the applicable data-rights markings as specified
in Clause 252.227-7013, 252.227.7015, or 252.227-7018 of the DFARS, as applicable. The type
of data-rights licenses that the U.S. Government holds will be a consideration when assigning
distribution statements.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 4: DISTRIBUTION STATEMENTS FOR USE ON TECHNICAL INFORMATION 15
SECTION 4: DISTRIBUTION STATEMENTS FOR USE ON TECHNICAL
INFORMATION
4.1. GENERAL.
a. Distribution statements will be shown on the title page or front cover of any technical
document as described in Paragraph 3.1.j and on SF 298, where applicable. Compilations of
documents may have different distribution statements governing their distribution if separated
from the main document. The distribution statement applicable to the main document will be
governed by the most restrictive distribution statement applicable to any part of the main
document.
b. The wording of the distribution statements specified by this issuance may not be modified
to accommodate additional distribution concerns such as distribution to foreign governments.
(1) Release or disclosure to foreign entities is outside the scope of secondary distribution
as defined in the Glossary. Such release or disclosure must be in accordance with DoDD
5230.11 and DoDI 2040.02, as applicable.
(2) Where other markings are authorized and used in accordance with associated law,
regulation, or U.S. Government–wide policy, those markings may be used to further inform
distribution decisions in accordance with Paragraph 4.2. (e.g., releasable to (“REL TO”)).
c. Distribution Statements B, C, D, and E are expressed in a standard format consisting of
information in this order:
(1) Authorized audience.
(2) Defense category. This is the reason for the determination as to the extent to which
the information is available for secondary release and distribution without additional approvals
or authorizations. Categories are listed in Paragraph 4.3. Cite the category heading only, for
example, “Controlled Technical Information.”
(3) Date of determination.
(4) Controlling DoD office.
d. Up to three reasons or justifications for the non-release of technical information may
apply. Therefore, more than one defense category may be cited in a distribution statement. In
these instances, the most restrictive reason will govern the overall distribution determination.
e. At the discretion of the controlling DoD office, for purposes of clarification, Distribution
Statements B, C, D, and E may begin with the word “Secondary,” and the following text may
precede the statement: “The [controlling DoD office] authorizes secondary distribution, release,
and dissemination to the extent permitted by this distribution statement without additional
approvals or authorizations.”
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 4: DISTRIBUTION STATEMENTS FOR USE ON TECHNICAL INFORMATION 16
4.2. DISTRIBUTION STATEMENTS AND NOTICES.
The distribution statements and notices described in this section are authorized for use on DoD
technical information. A matrix of distribution statements and corresponding reasons appears in
Table 1.
a. Distribution Statement A.
“Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: distribution is unlimited.”
(1) This statement may be used only on unclassified technical information that has been
approved for public release by a competent authority in accordance with the procedures
described in Paragraph 3.2.
(2) Scientific or technical information resulting from contracted fundamental research
efforts will normally be assigned Distribution Statement A, except for those rare and exceptional
circumstances where there is a likelihood of disclosing performance characteristics of military
systems or of manufacturing technologies that are unique and critical to defense. Extramural
research must be scoped and negotiated by the contracting/agreement activity with the contractor
and research performer and determined in writing by the contracting/agreement officer to be
fundamental research.
(3) This statement will not be used on classified technical information or information
containing export-controlled technical information.
(4) This statement may not be used on technical information that was formerly classified
or designated as CUI unless such information is approved for public release as described in
Paragraph 3.2.
b. Distribution Statement B.
“Distribution Statement B. Distribution authorized to U.S. Government agencies [category]
[date of determination]. Other requests for this document must be referred to [controlling DoD
office].”
(1) This statement can apply to classified, CUI, and unclassified technical information.
(2) Distribution is authorized only to employees of U.S. Government Executive Branch
departments and agencies and DoD Components.
c. Distribution Statement C.
“Distribution Statement C. Distribution authorized to U.S. Government agencies and their
contractors [category] [date of determination]. Other requests for this document must be referred
to [controlling DoD office].”
(1) This statement can apply to classified, CUI, and unclassified technical information.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 4: DISTRIBUTION STATEMENTS FOR USE ON TECHNICAL INFORMATION 17
(2) Distribution is authorized only to employees of U.S. Government Executive Branch
departments and agencies and DoD Components, individuals, or employers who enter into a
contract or award with the U.S. Government to perform a specific job, to supply labor and
materials, or for the sale of products and services if such distribution is in furtherance of that
contractual purpose.
d. Distribution Statement D.
“Distribution Statement D. Distribution authorized to the Department of Defense and U.S.
DoD contractors only [category] [date of determination]. Other requests for this document must
be referred to [controlling DoD office].”
(1) This statement can apply to classified, CUI, and unclassified technical information.
(2) Distribution is authorized only to military and civilian employees of the DoD or U.S.
DoD contractors or grantees who enter into a contract or award with the DoD to perform a
specific job, to supply labor and materials, or for the sale of products and services if such
distribution is in furtherance of that contractual purpose.
e. Distribution Statement E.
“Distribution Statement E. Distribution authorized to DoD Components only [category]
[date of determination]. Other requests for this document must be referred to [controlling DoD
office].”
(1) This statement can apply to classified, CUI, and unclassified technical information.
(2) Distribution is authorized only to military personnel and civilian employees of the
DoD.
(3) This statement will not be modified to further restrict access to specific branches or
agencies within the DoD.
(4) Any technical information delivered to DTIC or any other DoD Component
information center without a distribution statement will automatically be assigned Distribution
Statement E.
f. Distribution Statement F.
“Distribution Statement F. Further distribution only as directed by [controlling DoD office]
[date of determination] or higher DoD authority.”
(1) This statement can apply to classified, CUI, and unclassified technical information.
(2) The controlling DoD office or a higher authority must be consulted before the
material can be distributed. Use of this distribution statement cannot override distribution
designated in Federal law, regulation, or U.S. Government–wide policy.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 4: DISTRIBUTION STATEMENTS FOR USE ON TECHNICAL INFORMATION 18
(3) To promote the free flow of information within the DoD, Distribution Statement F
will not be used on classified, CUI, or unclassified scientific or technical information governed
by the DoD scientific and technical information program described in DoDI 3200.12.
(4) Other technical information (e.g., technical manuals and orders, weapons, munitions
documents) may be assigned Distribution Statement F, provided it will be reviewed on a 5-year
cycle to consider a wider secondary distribution audience.
(5) The controlling DoD office must respond within 30 days to a request for release of
technical information marked with Distribution Statement F. If the controlling DoD office
agrees or there is no response within 30 days of receipt of a request to release the information,
the information may be released to any DoD Component with Distribution Statement E and
release must be documented.
g. REL TO Notice.
Information has been predetermined by the DoD controlling agency, in accordance with
established foreign disclosure policies, to be releasable through established foreign disclosure
procedures and channels to the foreign country or international organization indicated. The REL
TO notice may be used to further inform distribution decisions. Follow the format described in
Volume 2 of DoDM 5200.01.
4.3. DEFENSE CATEGORIES.
Defense categories describe the reasons for safeguarding or applying distribution controls to
technical information. The listed defense categories override authorized reasons enacted in
previous issuances but do not affect distribution statements assigned to legacy information in
accordance with directives or instructions issued before the effective date of this issuance.
a. CTI.
CTI is a category of CUI. This is technical information with military or space application
that is subject to controls on access, use, reproduction, modification, performance, display,
release, disclosure, or distribution. It does not include information concerning general scientific,
mathematics, or engineering principles commonly taught in schools, colleges, and universities or
information in the public domain. Authorized distribution statements for CTI are Distribution
Statements B, C, D, E, or F or REL TO.
b. Contractor Performance Evaluation.
This category protects information in management reviews, records of contract performance
evaluation, or other advisory documents evaluating contractor programs, including supplier and
product performance information in accordance with DoDI 5000.79. Authorized distribution
statements for contractor performance evaluation are Distribution Statements B, E, or F.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 4: DISTRIBUTION STATEMENTS FOR USE ON TECHNICAL INFORMATION 19
c. Critical Technology.
This category protects information on technologies essential to the design, development,
production, operation, application, or maintenance of an article or service that makes or could
make a significant contribution to the military potential of any country, including the United
States. Such information may be classified or unclassified and is export controlled. Authorized
distribution statements for critical technology are Distribution Statements B, C, D, E, or F or
REL TO.
d. Direct Military Support.
This category protects export-controlled technical information of such military significance
that release for purposes other than direct support of DoD-approved activities may jeopardize an
important technological or operational military advantage of the United States, another country,
or a joint U.S.–foreign program. A competent authority will designate such data in accordance
with DoDD 5230.25. Cover pages will be marked with the export-control warning shown in
Figure 3 in accordance with Part 250 of Title 32, CFR. Authorized distribution statements for
direct military support are Distribution Statements E or F or REL TO.
e. Export Controlled.
This category protects technical information in accordance with DoDD 5230.25, DoDI
2040.02, the ITAR, and EAR.
(1) Export-Controlled Technical Information.
Export-controlled technical information marked with Distribution Statement C or D will
not be distributed outside the U.S. Government or to U.S. Government contractors without first
verifying the recipient’s eligibility and authority to receive export-controlled technical
information by verifying that they have a current, valid Department of Defense Form 2345,
“Militarily Critical Technical Data Agreement,” available on the DoD Forms Management
Program Website at https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/forms/dd/dd2345.pdf,
in accordance with DoDD 5230.25.
(2) Export-Control Warning.
All printed and electronic technical information, including technical information in a
digital form, that is determined to contain export-controlled technical information, will be
marked as shown in Figure 3. When it is technically impractical to use the entire statement, an
abbreviated marking may be used and a copy of the full statement added to the notice to
accompany the release of export-controlled technical information required by Part 250 of Title
32, CFR.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 4: DISTRIBUTION STATEMENTS FOR USE ON TECHNICAL INFORMATION 20
Figure 3. Export-Control Warning
WARNING - This document contains technical data whose export is restricted by the
Arms Export Control Act (Section 2751 of Title 22, United States Code) or the Export
Control Reform Act of 2018 (Chapter 58 Sections 4801-4852 of Title 50, United States
Code). Violations of these export laws are subject to severe criminal penalties.
Disseminate in accordance with provisions of DoD Directive 5230.25 and DoD
Instruction 2040.02.
(3) Export-Control Distribution Statements.
Authorized distribution statements for export control are Distribution Statements B, C, D,
E, or F or REL TO.
f. Foreign Government Information.
This category protects information provided to the United States by a foreign government or
governments, an international organization of governments, or any element thereof with the
express written requirement from the foreign government that the information, the source of the
information, or both are not to be further distributed without the permission of the foreign entity.
It also protects information produced by the United States pursuant to, or as a result of, a joint
arrangement with a foreign government or governments, an international organization of
governments, or any element thereof, with the express written requirement from the U.S.
Government that the information, the arrangement, or both are to not to be further distributed
without the permission of the U.S. Government. Authorized distribution statements for foreign
government information are Distribution Statements B, C, D, E, or F or REL TO.
g. International Agreements (IAs).
This category protects IAs and IA-related information that may contain sensitive information
not authorized for public release.
(1) This includes internal staffing documents, including, but not limited to, summary
statements of intent, related technology security and foreign disclosure guidance, and IAs under
negotiation.
(2) Although IAs, once established, are normally publicly released on the Department of
State treaty portal, an IA containing sensitive information of a foreign government or
international organization may be exempt from public release, as annotated in Section 130c of
Title 10, U.S.C. Authorized distribution statements for such technical information are
Distribution Statements B, C, D, E, or F or REL TO.
h. Operations Security.
This category protects technical information that that may be observed by adversary
intelligence systems and to determine what indicators hostile intelligence systems may obtain
that could be interpreted or assembled to derive critical information in time to be useful to
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 4: DISTRIBUTION STATEMENTS FOR USE ON TECHNICAL INFORMATION 21
adversaries. Authorized distribution statements for operations security are Distribution
Statements B, E, or F.
i. Patents and Inventions.
This category protects information on any art or process—the way of doing or making
things—that is or may be patentable under U.S. patent laws in which the U.S. Government owns
or may own a right, title, or interest, including patents and patent applications under secrecy
orders in accordance with Chapter 17 of Title 35, U.S.C. It also protects patentable information
on systems or processes in the development or concept stage from premature distribution. This
category does not apply to scientific or technical information protected by copyright or to patents
issued by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, which are in the public domain. Authorized
distribution statements for patents and inventions are Distribution Statements B, E, or F.
j. Proprietary Business Information.
This category protects material and information relating to, or associated with, a company’s
products, business, or activities, including but not limited to financial information, data or
statements, trade secrets, product research and development, existing and future product designs,
and performance specifications. Authorized distribution statements for proprietary information
are Distribution Statements B, E, or F.
k. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR).
The U.S. Government’s rights to use, modify, reproduce, release, perform, display, or
disclose this technical data are restricted by the DFARS and the terms of the applicable
instrument. The cover will be marked with the SBIR data-rights marking in accordance with the
applicable DFARS clause. Authorized distribution statements for SBIR technical information
are Distribution Statements B, E, or F.
l. Software Documentation.
This category protects technical information relating to computer software that is releasable
only in accordance with the software license in a contract, negotiated in accordance with Subpart
227.72 of the DFARS. It includes documentation such as user or owner manuals, installation
instructions, operating instructions, and other information that explains the capabilities of or
provides instructions for using or maintaining computer software. The documentation is
releasable only in accordance with terms of the licensing agreement. Authorized distribution
statements for software documentation are Distribution Statements B, C, D, E, or F.
m. Test and Evaluation.
This category protects results of testing and evaluation of commercial products or military
hardware when disclosure may cause an unfair advantage or disadvantage to the product
manufacturer. Authorized distribution statements for test and evaluation are Distribution
Statements B, E, or F or REL TO.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 4: DISTRIBUTION STATEMENTS FOR USE ON TECHNICAL INFORMATION 22
n. Vulnerability Information.
This category protects technical information that provides insight into vulnerabilities of U.S.
critical infrastructure, including DoD warfighting capabilities vital to national security that are
otherwise not publicly available. Authorized distribution statements for vulnerability
information are Distribution Statements B, C, D, E, or F.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 4: DISTRIBUTION STATEMENTS FOR USE ON TECHNICAL INFORMATION 23
Table 1. Distribution Statements and Their Corresponding Categories for Use
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release: distribution is unlimited.
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT B. Distribution authorized to U.S. Government agencies [category]
[date of determination]. Other requests for this document must be referred to [controlling DoD office].
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT C. Distribution authorized to U.S. Government agencies and their
contractors [category] [date of determination]. Other requests for this document must be referred to
[controlling DoD office].
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT D. Distribution authorized to Department of Defense and U.S. DoD
contractors only [category] [date of determination]. Other requests for this document must be referred
to [controlling DoD office].
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT E. Distribution authorized to DoD Components only [category] [date
of determination]. Other requests for this document must be referred to [controlling DoD office].
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT F. Further distribution only as directed by [controlling DoD office]
[date of determination] or higher DoD authority.
REL TO. Information has been predetermined by the DoD controlling agency, in accordance with
established foreign disclosure policies, to be releasable through established foreign disclosure
procedures and channels, to the foreign country and international organization indicated.
CATEGORY
PUBLIC RELEASE
CTI
CONTRACTOR PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
CRITICAL TECHNOLOGY
DIRECT MILITARY SUPPORT
EXPORT CONTROLLED
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT INFORMATION
IAs
OPERATIONS SECURITY
PATENTS AND INVENTIONS
PROPRIETARY BUSINESS INFORMATION
SBIR
SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION
TEST AND EVALUATION
VULNERABILITY INFORMATION
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 5: THIRD PARTY–IMPOSED MARKINGS 24
SECTION 5: THIRD PARTY–IMPOSED MARKINGS
5.1. GENERAL.
Generally, contractors retain ownership of their intellectual property and the technical and other
data they develop (that it is embodied in) that is delivered or otherwise provided to the U.S.
Government.
a. The U.S. Government typically receives license rights to use, reproduce, modify, release,
perform, display, and disclose the information. The scope of the U.S. Government’s license
rights depends on a variety of factors, including the funding source for developing the
technology, whether the information relates to a commercial item, and the parties’ negotiations
for specialized license terms or restrictions.
b. When the U.S. Government has unlimited rights, it may use, modify, reproduce, perform,
display, release, or disclose information, in whole or in part, in any manner and for any purpose
whatsoever and request or authorize others to do so.
5.2. RESTRICTIVE MARKINGS.
a. General.
Data rights markings that restrict the Government’s use and distribution of technical data and
software are authorized on technical data and software developed exclusively or partially at
private expense except for certain categories of data in which the U.S. Government always has
unlimited rights and data developed exclusively at U.S. Government expense. When the U.S.
Government receives less than unlimited license rights in technical data, documents, or
information, the contractor must mark the information with appropriate restrictive markings.
The specific format and content of these markings depends on whether the data or software are
commercial or noncommercial.
(1) For noncommercial technical data and noncommercial computer software, the
applicable regulations specify the exact wording of the authorized restrictive markings.
(2) Commercial technical data and commercial computer software (except any
commercial data that is not developed exclusively at private expense and certain categories of
data in which the U.S. Government always has unlimited rights) may be marked with any
restrictive marking that the owner of the data customarily provides the general public, provided
it:
(a) Appropriately provides notice of the data owner’s proprietary interests.
(b) Clearly characterizes the U.S. Government’s license rights.
(c) Does not contravene Federal procurement law.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 5: THIRD PARTY–IMPOSED MARKINGS 25
b. Procurement Contracts.
The Federal Acquisition Regulation and the DFARS govern the restrictive markings that
apply to technical data, documents, or information that is developed or delivered under a
procurement contract. Subpart 227.71 of the DFARS governs the license rights and restrictive
markings for technical data, and Subpart 227.72 of the DFARS governs computer software and
its documentation.
(1) Noncommercial Technologies.
The DFARS governs the restrictive markings that apply to technical data, documents, or
information that are developed or delivered under DoD procurement contracts. DFARS Subpart
227.71 addresses the license rights and restrictive markings for technical data, and Subpart
227.72 of the DFARS addresses license rights in computer software and computer software
documentation, which is considered a category of technical data. Restrictive markings that
restrict the Government’s use and distribution of technical data and software are authorized for
noncommercial technical data and noncommercial computer software developed and delivered
under U.S. Government procurement contracts with less than unlimited rights.
The DFARS establishes specific procedures governing the placement and location of
restrictive markings on deliverables, storage media, and transmittal documents and markings to
be used. There are only seven types of markings related to restrictions on the Government’s use
and distribution of technical data and software that are authorized for use on noncommercial
technical data and noncommercial computer software by the relevant clauses:
(a) The Government Purpose Rights marking authorized by Clause 252.227-7013 of
the DFARS.
(b) The Limited Rights marking, for technical data only, authorized by Clause
252.227-7013 of the DFARS.
(c) The Restricted Rights marking, for computer software only, authorized by Clause
252.227-7014 of the DFARS.
(d) The Special License Rights marking authorized by Clause 252.227-7013 of the
DFARS.
(e) The Special License Rights marking authorized by Clause 252.227-7014 of the
DFARS.
(f) The SBIR marking authorized by Clause 252.227-7018 of the DFARS.
(g) Pre-existing markings authorized under a prior U.S. Government contract.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 5: THIRD PARTY–IMPOSED MARKINGS 26
(2) Commercial Technologies.
The DFARS guidance concerning restrictive markings on commercial technologies is
flexible to account for the variations in markings customarily used in the marketplace provided
to the public.
(a) The U.S. Government’s license rights will be the standard Limited Rights
specified in Clause 252.227-7015 of the DFARS for commercial technical data (except any
commercial data not developed exclusively at private expense and certain categories of data in
which the U.S. Government always has unlimited rights).
(b) Similarly, the DFARS does not specify a restrictive marking for commercial
computer software. Commercial computer software delivered to the Government will be marked
consistent with the license customary provided by the owner to the public, provided it is clear
and doesn’t contravene U.S. Government law. The U.S. Government may negotiate specifically
negotiated license rights, which will be documented in the contract, if the commercial rights do
not suffice. Any commercial computer software developed exclusively or partially at U.S.
Government expense will be marked with the appropriate marking in Clause 252.227-7014 of the
DFARS.
c. Instruments Other Than Federal Acquisition Regulation-Based Contracts.
Technical data, documents, or information may be developed or delivered to the U.S.
Government under various legally binding instruments other than Federal Acquisition
Regulation-based contracts. Examples include grants, cooperative agreements, cooperative
research and development agreements pursuant to Section 3710a of Title 15, U.S.C., or other
transaction agreements pursuant to Section 4201 of Title 10, U.S.C. The legally binding
agreement should establish the U.S. Government’s license rights and any specified marking.
d. Other Forms of Proprietary Information.
The U.S. Government may receive a private entity’s proprietary information in a variety of
contexts in which there may not be a formal legal agreement to document the U.S. Government’s
license rights or any specific restrictive markings. For example, a private entity may provide the
U.S. Government with certain technical information to supplement the U.S. Government’s
evaluation of a new technology for market research or similar activities. In these cases, the
restrictive marking on the materials may be the key element in identifying the U.S.
Government’s license rights in those materials. Use caution when evaluating these materials for
applying of the appropriate distribution statement to ensure that the private entities’ proprietary
interests are protected.
e. Copyright.
Although not necessarily used as a restrictive marking, a notice of copyright may be used in
addition to the other authorized markings. Conforming notices are limited to including the
owner’s legal name, copyright year, and either the term “copyright,” the abbreviation “CopyR,”
or the copyright symbol, “©.”
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 5: THIRD PARTY–IMPOSED MARKINGS 27
(1) A conforming copyright notice alone does not qualify as a restrictive marking.
(2) The contracting officer cannot accept third-party copyrighted material (i.e.,
copyrights in an entity’s name that is not the prime contractor) without ensuring that the prime
contractor obtained a license in that third-party copyrighted material consistent with the U.S.
Government’s license rights in the data.
(3) Copyright protection is not available in the United States for works created by U.S.
Government employees as part of their official duties except when a civilian member of the
faculty of certain listed U.S. Government institutions owns the copyright to certain works in
accordance with Section 105 of Title 17, U.S.C.
5.3. REVIEWING THE APPLIED MARKINGS.
Technical data, documents, or information marked with contractor-imposed restrictive markings
may be released only in accordance with U.S. Government license rights in those materials.
a. Step 1.
Verify the U.S. Government’s license rights or authorization to distribute. A third party–
imposed restrictive marking provides general notice of restrictions on the use or disclosure of the
information but may not completely or accurately specify the entire spectrum of license rights
granted to the U.S. Government. In most cases, the DFARS clauses in the contract (or language
in other types of agreements like grants, other transactions, etc.) dictate the exact language for
license rights markings with the exception of markings for commercial computer software.
b. Step 2.
Apply the markings. The appropriate distribution statement is dependent in part on the scope
of the U.S. Government’s license rights in those materials.
(1) In most cases, the reason “Proprietary Business Information” will provide a basis for
Distribution Statements B, E, or F. When used as the reason for a limitation, note the U.S.
Government’s license rights as described in Paragraph 5.2.a.(1) in parentheses (e.g., “Proprietary
Information (DFARS Limited Rights),” “Proprietary Information (SBIR Rights)”).
(2) If the U.S. Government has unlimited rights in the information, the materials may
qualify for Distribution Statement A if no other reason exists for using a more restrictive
distribution statement or other restrictive markings (e.g., classification, export control) prevent
public dissemination and after appropriate clearance procedures are carried out in accordance
with DoDI 5230.29. A copyright notice alone does not necessarily qualify as a restrictive
marking.
c. Step 3.
Implement appropriate procedures and safeguards governing distribution. In some cases, the
U.S. Government may be authorized to distribute proprietary information only when the release
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
SECTION 5: THIRD PARTY–IMPOSED MARKINGS 28
or disclosure accompanies certain procedural safeguards. For example, the U.S. Government
may release or disclose technical data or computer software governed by a DFARS Government
Purpose Rights license only when the recipient of the information has signed a nondisclosure
agreement as specified in DFARS 227.7103-7 or receives the information under performance of
a contract in accordance with DFARS Clause 252.227-7025. The U.S. Government must ensure
that these requirements are satisfied before distribution.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
GLOSSARY 29
GLOSSARY
G.1. ACRONYMS.
A
CRONYM
M
EANING
CFR
Code of Federal Regulations
CTI
controlled technical information
CUI
controlled unclassified information
DCTO(S&T)
Deputy Chief Technology Officer for Science and Technology
DFARS
Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement
DoDD
DoD directive
DoDI
DoD instruction
DoDM
DoD manual
DOPSR
Defense Office of Prepublication and Security Review
DTIC
Defense Technical Information Center
EAR
Export Administration Regulations
IA
international agreement
ITAR
International Traffic in Arms Regulations
RDT&E
research, development, test, and evaluation
SBIR
small business innovation research
SF
standard form
U.S.C.
United States Code
G.2. DEFINITIONS.
Unless otherwise noted, these terms and their definitions are for the purpose of this issuance.
T
ERM
D
EFINITION
authorized holder
Individual, agency, organization, or group of users permitted to
designate or handle classified information or CUI.
budget activity
Defined in Chapter 1 of Volume 2A of DoD 7000.14-R.
computer software
Computer programs, source codes, source code listings, object code
listings, design details, algorithms, processes, flow charts, formulas,
and related material that would enable the software to be reproduced,
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
GLOSSARY 30
recreated, or recompiled. Computer software does not include
computer databases or computer software documentation.
configuration
management
documentation
Documentation that is prepared by a design activity for the disclosure
and description of configuration items, form, fit, function, interface,
performance, operation, reliability, maintainability, quality control,
or other configuration management or engineering documentation
features of items, materials, methods, practices, processes, and
services.
contracted
fundamental
research
Research performed under grants and contracts that are funded by
RDT&E Budget Activity 1 (Basic Research), whether performed by
universities or industry, and Budget Activity 2 (Applied Research)
performed on campus at a university. The research will not be
considered fundamental in those rare and exceptional circumstances
where the applied research–funded effort presents a likelihood of
disclosing performance characteristics of military systems or
manufacturing technologies that are unique and critical to defense
and where the contract or grant records agreement on restrictions.
contractor
An individual or organization outside the U.S. Government that
enters into any type of contractual vehicle (e.g., a contract,
agreement, order, other transaction) to provide any supplies or
services, including, but not limited to, research and development, to a
U.S. Government agency, including prime contractors and
subcontractors.
controlling DoD
office
The DoD activity that sponsored the work that originated the
technical information for the DoD and has the inherently
governmental responsibility for determining the dissemination of
such technical information. For joint sponsorship, the controlling
DoD office is determined by agreement and may be a party, group, or
committee representing the interested activities or DoD Components.
The DoD activity that manages technical information not originated
for the DoD but managed by that DoD activity has the inherently
governmental responsibility for determining the dissemination of that
technical information. Only the controlling DoD office or higher
DoD authority may authorize dissemination beyond the
dissemination statement.
critical technology
Defense articles or defense services included in the ITAR.
Items included in Supplement No. 1 to Part 774 of EAR and
controlled:
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
GLOSSARY 31
Pursuant to multilateral regimes, including for reasons relating to
national security, chemical and biological weapons proliferation,
nuclear nonproliferation, or missile technology; or
For reasons relating to regional stability or surreptitious listening.
Specially designed and prepared nuclear equipment, parts and
components, materials, software, and technology covered by Part 810
of Title 10, CFR.
Nuclear facilities, equipment, and material covered by Part 110 of
Title 10, CFR.
Select agents and toxins covered by Part 331 of Title 7, CFR; Part
121 of Title 9, CFR; or Part 73 of Title 42, CFR.
Emerging and foundational technologies controlled pursuant to
Chapter 58 of Title 50, U.S.C.
Items listed on the DoD critical technologies list pursuant to Section
1049 of Public Law 115-232.
CTI
Technical information with military or space applications that is
subject to controls on access, use, reproduction, modification,
performance, display, release, disclosure, or distribution. CTI does
not include information concerning general scientific, mathematics,
or engineering principles commonly taught in schools, colleges, and
universities or information in the public domain.
CUI
Defined in Section 2002.4 of Title 32, CFR.
CUI category
Defined in Section 2002.4 of Title 32, CFR.
date of determination
The date on which the reason for assigning a specific distribution
statement was determined. It is usually the date of the report but may
be earlier if a contract or other agreement specifies it. The date is
important for document identification and for legal, contractual, and
regulatory evidentiary purposes.
Defense Acquisition
System
Defined in DoDD 5135.02.
defense article
Defined in Part 120.6 of the ITAR.
defense service
Defined in Part 120.9 of the ITAR.
distribution
statement
A statement used to mark technical information to indicate the extent
of its availability for secondary distribution, release, and disclosure
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
GLOSSARY 32
without additional approvals or authorizations. A distribution
statement marking is distinct from and in addition to a security
classification marking assigned in accordance with Volume 2 of
DoDM 5200.01.
document
Defined in Section 2002.4 of Title 32, CFR.
engineering
information
Engineering data used for design, development, test, manufacture,
acceptance, training, operation, maintenance, and overhaul. The
principal types of engineering information are engineering drawings
and associated lists (e.g., parts list, data list, index list), manufacturer
specifications and standards, data sheets, test reports, bills of
material, handbooks, technical orders or manuals, engineering
changes, technical data packages, and other documents that provide
data on reliability, maintainability, end-item application, and quality
control.
export control
Defense articles, defense services, and related technical data subject
to the ITAR or commodities, software, or technology subject to the
EAR.
export-controlled
technical information
Technical information concerning certain items, commodities,
technology, software, or other information whose export could
reasonably be expected to adversely affect U.S. national security and
nonproliferation objectives, including technical data defined in
Section 120.10 of Title 22, CFR, and technology defined in Part
772.1 of Title 15, CFR, and Section 4801(11) of Title 50, U.S.C.
extramural research
Research conducted by any research institution other than the Federal
agency to which the funds supporting the research were appropriated.
foreign government
information
Information provided to the U.S. Government by a foreign
government or governments, an international organization of
governments, or any element thereof with the expectation that the
information, the source of the information, or both are to be held in
confidence and afforded the same degree of protection afforded to
U.S. Government information of an equivalent classification and
distribution control as required by national security regulations; or
Information produced by the U.S. Government pursuant to or as a
result of a joint arrangement with a foreign government or
governments, an international organization of governments, or any
element thereof requiring that the information, the arrangement, or
both are to be held in confidence and afforded the same degree of
protection afforded to U.S. Government information of an equivalent
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
GLOSSARY 33
classification and distribution control as required by national security
regulations.
fundamental
research
Defined in National Security Decision Directive-189.
legacy material
Defined in Section 2002.4 of Title 32, CFR.
primary distribution
The initial targeted distribution of or access to technical documents
authorized by the controlling DoD office or any release by the
controlling DoD office thereafter.
proprietary
Information relating to or associated with a company’s products,
business, or activities, including, but not limited to, financial
information, data or statements, trade secrets, product research and
development, existing and future product designs and performance
specifications, marketing plans or techniques, schematics, client lists,
computer programs, processes, and knowledge that have been clearly
identified and properly marked by the company as proprietary
information, trade secrets, or company confidential information.
RDT&E
Defined in Chapter 1 of Volume 2A of DoD 7000.14-R.
repository
Data centers, information analysis centers, technical libraries, and
other information activities that collect, store, process, and provide
document, data, or information services.
secondary
distribution
Release of technical information by an entity other than the originator
or controlling DoD office. This includes loaning, allowing the
reading of, or releasing a document outright in whole or in part.
technical data
Defined in Clause 252.227-7013(a)(15) of the DFARS.
technical document
Any recorded information that conveys scientific and technical
information or technical data. This includes informal documents like
working papers, memorandums, and preliminary reports when such
documents have use beyond the immediate mission requirement or
will become part of the historical record of technical achievements.
technical information
Technical data or computer software of any kind that can be used or
adapted for use in the design, production, manufacture, assembly,
repair, overhaul processing, engineering, development, operation,
maintenance, adapting, testing, or reconstruction of goods or materiel
or any technology that advances the state of the art, or establishes a
new art, in an area of significant military applicability in the United
States. The data may be in tangible form, such as a blueprint,
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
GLOSSARY 34
photograph, plan, instruction, or an operating manual or may be
intangible, such as a technical service or oral, auditory, or visual
descriptions. Examples of technical data include research and
engineering data, engineering drawings, and associated lists;
specifications; standards; process sheets; manuals; technical reports;
technical orders; catalog-item identifications; data sets; studies,
analyses, and related information; and computer software.
unclassified
Defined in DoDI 5200.48.
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
REFERENCES 35
REFERENCES
Code of Federal Regulations, Title 10
Code of Federal Regulations, Title 15
Code of Federal Regulations, Title 22
Code of Federal Regulations, Title 32
Code of Federal Regulations, Title 36, Chapter XII, Subchapter B
Code of Federal Regulations, Title 42, Part 73
Code of Federal Regulations, Title 7, Part 331
Code of Federal Regulations, Title 9, Part 121
Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement, current edition
DoD 7000.14-R, Volume 2A, Chapter 1, “Department of Defense Financial Management
Regulations: Budget Formulation and Presentation,” current edition
DoD Directive 5122.05, “Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs (ASD(PA)),”
August 7, 2017
DoD Directive 5135.02, “Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment
(USD(A&S)),” July 15, 2020
DoD Directive 5137.02, “Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering
(USD(R&E)),” July 15, 2020
DoD Directive 5205.02E, “DoD Operations Security (OPSEC) Program,” June 20, 2012, as
amended
DoD Directive 5230.11, “Disclosure of Classified Military Information to Foreign Governments
and International Organizations,” June 16, 1992
DoD Directive 5230.25, “Withholding of Unclassified Technical Data from Public Disclosure,”
November 6, 1984, as amended
DoD Directive 5400.07, “DoD Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Program,” April 5, 2019
DoD Instruction 2040.02, “International Transfers of Technology, Articles, and Services,”
March 27, 2014, as amended
DoD Instruction 3200.12, “DoD Scientific and Technical Information Program (STIP),”
August 22, 2013, as amended
DoD Instruction 5000.79, “Defense-wide Sharing and Use of Supplier and Product Performance
Information (PI),” October 15, 2019
DoD Instruction 5000.83, “Technology and Program Protection to Maintain Technological
Advantage,” July 20, 2020, as amended
DoD Instruction 5000.90, “Cybersecurity for Acquisition Decision Authorities and Program
Managers,” December 31, 2020
DoD Instruction 5200.01, “DoD Information Security Program and Protection of Sensitive
Compartmented Information (SCI),” April 21, 2016, as amended
DoD Instruction 5200.48, “Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI),” March 6, 2020
DoD Instruction 5230.09, “Clearance of DoD Information for Public Release,” January 25, 2019,
as amended
DoDI 5230.24, January 10, 2023
REFERENCES 36
DoD Instruction 5230.29, “Security and Policy Review of DoD Information for Public Release,”
August 13, 2014, as amended
DoD Manual 3200.14, Volume 1, “Principles and Operational Parameters of the DoD Scientific
and Technical Information Program (STIP): General Processes,” March 14, 2014, as
amended
DoD Manual 5200.01, “DoD Information Security Program,” February 24, 2012, as amended
DoD Manual 5200.45, “Instructions for Developing Security Classification Guides,” April 2,
2013, as amended
DoD Manual 5230.30, “DoD Mandatory Declassification Review (MDR) Program,” December
22, 2011, as amended
DoD Manual 5400.07, “DoD Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Program,” January 25, 2017
Executive Order 13526, “Classified National Security Information,” December 29, 2009
National Security Decision Directive-189, “National Policy on the Transfer of Scientific,
Technical, and Engineering Information,” September 21, 1985
Public Law 115-232, Section 1049, “John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for
Fiscal Year 2019,” August 13, 2018
United States Code, Title 5, Section 552, (also known as the Freedom of Information Act)
United States Code, Title 10
United States Code, Title 15
United States Code, Title 17, Section 105
United States Code, Title 22
United States Code, Title 35, Chapter 17
United States Code, Title 44
United States Code, Title 50