Legal Definitions - double use

Double Use

"Double use," often referred to as "dual use," describes goods, technologies, software, or services that have legitimate civilian applications but can also be adapted for military purposes, for the development of weapons of mass destruction (WMD), or for other activities that could pose a national security risk. Governments frequently regulate the export and transfer of such items to prevent their diversion to harmful or unauthorized uses.

• Example 1: Specialized Drones

  A company manufactures high-resolution camera drones primarily for commercial purposes, such as aerial photography for real estate, agricultural crop monitoring, and surveying infrastructure. However, these same drones, with their advanced navigation and payload capacity, could potentially be modified to carry surveillance equipment for military intelligence or even small explosive devices.

  Explanation: The drone technology is considered "double use" because its primary, legitimate purpose is civilian (commercial photography, agriculture), but it also possesses capabilities that could be exploited for military or harmful applications (surveillance, weapon delivery). Consequently, the export of such drones might be subject to strict government controls.

• Example 2: Advanced Machine Tools

  A precision manufacturing firm produces highly accurate Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines used to create intricate parts for the automotive and aerospace industries, ensuring components fit together perfectly. While essential for civilian manufacturing, these exact same machines can also be used to fabricate critical components for missile systems, nuclear centrifuges, or other sensitive military hardware.

  Explanation: The advanced CNC machine is a "double use" item. Its intended and beneficial application is in civilian industrial production, but its high precision and capability make it equally valuable for manufacturing components for military or WMD programs. Therefore, its sale and transfer, especially internationally, would likely be heavily regulated to prevent proliferation risks.

• Example 3: Biological Research Agents

  A university research lab works with specific strains of bacteria that are crucial for developing new vaccines and understanding disease mechanisms, contributing significantly to public health. However, these same bacterial strains, if mishandled or intentionally misused, could potentially be weaponized or used to create biological agents for harmful purposes.

  Explanation: The biological research agents are "double use." Their primary purpose is beneficial scientific and medical research, aimed at improving health. Yet, their inherent nature means they could also be diverted or misused for biological warfare or bioterrorism. This potential for harm necessitates stringent safety protocols, security measures, and regulatory oversight for their handling and transfer.