🛡️ DFARS stands for Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement. It’s a set of rules issued by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) that supplements the broader Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). Think of it as the DoD’s playbook for how it buys goods and services—especially when national security and defense contracting are involved.

📘 What DFARS Covers

• Cybersecurity requirements for contractors handling sensitive defense data
• Sourcing restrictions to avoid overreliance on foreign suppliers
• Ethical standards and business conduct for defense contractors
• Contract clauses specific to defense-related projects

🔐 Key Compliance Areas

• DFARS 252.204-7012: Requires contractors to safeguard Covered Defense Information (CDI) and report cyber incidents
• Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC): A framework tied to DFARS that ensures contractors meet specific security levels
• Supply chain integrity: Limits use of certain foreign materials or technologies

🚫 What Happens If You Don’t Comply

• Disqualification from DoD contracts
• Damage to reputation and competitive standing
• Potential legal and financial consequences

🏢 Who Needs to Follow DFARS?

Any organization that:

• Provides products or services to the DoD
• Handles Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)
• Is part of the defense supply chain

DFARS is like the rulebook for playing in the defense contracting arena. If you’re a vendor or supplier to the DoD, understanding and complying with DFARS isn’t optional—it’s essential.