USML Category IV: Launch Vehicles, Guided Missiles, Ballistic Missiles, Rockets, Torpedoes, Bombs, and Mines

Coverage

What Category IV covers

USML Category IV is one of the most tightly controlled categories, covering complete guided and unguided military rockets, missiles, torpedoes, bombs, mines, and related propulsion systems and subsystems. This category has significant overlap with the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), and exports are among the most heavily scrutinized in U.S. defense trade. Both complete systems and specially designed components — including guidance packages, warheads, and motor cases — are captured.

EAR / ECCN

EAR overlap

Space launch vehicles and some commercial rocket propulsion components may be subject to EAR under ECCN 9A004 or 9B004. However, any missile or rocket subsystem that could contribute to a military delivery system with a range over 300 km and payload over 500 kg is subject to MTCR-based ITAR controls that override EAR jurisdiction.

Licensing

Typical license requirements

Exports of Category IV items require DSP-5 licenses and are subject to stringent policy review. Missile-related transfers often require Presidential certification and Congressional notification under Section 36(c) of the Arms Export Control Act. MTCR Category I items face a strong presumption of denial.

Regulations

Key citations

• 22 CFR §121.1 Category IV
• 22 CFR §123 — Export Licenses
• 22 U.S.C. §2797 — MTCR adherence requirements
• 22 CFR §126.1 — Prohibited destinations

Always verify against the current version of the USML (22 CFR Part 121) on the eCFR. ITAR Screen classifications are versioned against the USML reference at the time of the call.