Essence of the Act
This is a comprehensive technical regulation updating the EU’s control list of dual-use items (items that can be used for both civilian and military purposes). The regulation specifically modifies Annex I of Regulation (EU) 2021/821, providing detailed technical specifications and control parameters for various sensitive materials, equipment, and technologies. It represents a crucial update to ensure alignment with international non-proliferation commitments and security obligations.
Structure and Main Provisions
The regulation is structured with two operational articles and an extensive Annex I, which is divided into 11 distinct parts. The first part establishes general notes, acronyms, and definitions, while the subsequent parts (II-XI) detail specific technical categories including nuclear materials, special materials, electronics, computers, telecommunications, sensors/lasers, navigation, and aerospace items.The regulation provides extensive technical specifications for nuclear-related equipment and materials, including:
- Equipment for isotope separation plants and gas centrifuges
- Production equipment for heavy water and deuterium compounds
- Nuclear reactor fuel element fabrication equipment
- Plant equipment for reprocessing irradiated nuclear fuel
- Conversion facilities for plutonium and uranium
Key Technical Provisions
The most significant technical provisions include:
- Detailed specifications for materials resistant to UF6 corrosion
- Technical parameters for controlled equipment and components
- Requirements for measurement and control systems in nuclear facilities
- Specifications for containment and handling systems of nuclear materials
- Control parameters for specially designed components and auxiliary systems
The regulation maintains strict technical controls while ensuring legitimate peaceful nuclear activities can proceed under appropriate safeguards. Each category includes precise technical specifications and thresholds that determine whether items fall under control requirements.
