The UK and US Governments and the Export Group for Aerospace & Defence (EGAD) are holding a symposium, hosted by Reed Smith, in central London on Tuesday 2 October 2012, to explore how to exploit the benefits of the UK-US Defence Trade Cooperation Treaty (DTCT) and update UK defence and security companies on how and why they should join the “Approved Community.”

The DTCT came into force on 13 April 2012 and is intended to simplify bilateral defence trade between the two nations, as well as enhancing interoperability on the front line. Both governments are extremely keen to continue comprehensive outreach to industry to establish opportunities for using DTCT, and to provide a forum for constructive feedback. This symposium is intended to be the first of a number of events in the UK, while efforts are also being undertaken to promote awareness of the Treaty in the USA.

Among the areas the seminar will cover are:

• An insight into DTCT from senior government and industry figures;
• Learning from those who have already experienced DTCT;
• Exploring various aspects of DTCT, including the Exempted Technologies List;
• The legal dimension of DTCT;
• A chance to ask experts about what DTCT means for your business.

By the end the day participants will have a clearer understanding of the Approved Community application process and, if they intend to join, how this can be achieved as efficiently as possible in terms of both cost and time. They will also be in a position to make an informed commercial decision as to whether they can make practical use of the Treaty.

So join us on 2 October to:

• Increase your understanding of DTCT;
• Learn how it might benefit your company commercially;
• Learn how DTCT supports front line capability;
• Be part of highlighting the challenges encountered or foreseen by UK defence and security companies.

Reed Smith Partners Peter Teare and Leigh Hansson will be presenting 'Getting the law on your side: US-UK Defence Trade Co-operation Treaty (DTCT) and ITAR Compliance.'  Peter will also be participating in the panel entitled "US-UK Defence Trade Co-operation Treaty (DTCT) ‘Question time’."