Introduction to Foreign Military Sales (FMS) & Direct Commercial Sales (DCS)

Join Steven A. Casazza, President of Defense Trade Solutions and Vice Chair of NDIA’s International Division, for a primer training session designed specifically for small and mid-sized defense and dual-use technology companies looking to explore or expand their global footprint.

Held the day before NDIA’s Emerging Technologies Conference, this in-person course provides a high-impact introduction to Foreign Military Sales (FMS), Direct Commercial Sales (DCS), and the compliance landscape surrounding international defense trade. You’ll gain real-world insights into how to navigate the U.S. government export system, determine which sales path is right for your business, and avoid common pitfalls that cost small businesses time, revenue, and reputation.

Topics include:

• Growth opportunities through international sale
• The nuts and bolts of the FMS and DCS processes
• Key U.S. government stakeholders and how to engage them
• Export compliance essentials (ITAR, EAR, TSFD)
• How to position your company for teaming, advocacy, and global success

Whether you're just starting to explore international markets or ready to make your first foreign sale, this session delivers practical tools, lessons learned, and expert coaching tailored to small and mid-sized businesses in the defense sector.

Who Should Attend:
CEOs, BD leads, compliance managers, and program staff from emerging defense and national security companies.