Legal Definitions - dual use item

A dual use item is a product, software, or technology that can be used for both commercial and military purposes or for proliferation. This means that the item has the potential to be used for peaceful or harmful purposes.

For example, a drone can be used for commercial purposes such as aerial photography or for military purposes such as surveillance or attacks. Another example is software that can be used for financial analysis or for developing weapons.

The term "dual use item" is commonly used in the context of the Commerce Control List (CCL) found in the Export AdministrationRegulations. The CCL is a list of items that are subject to export controls due to their potential military or proliferation applications.