U.S. Government Facility Security Clearances
(“FCLs”) may not be issued to U.S. companies under
foreign ownership, control or influence (“FOCI”) unless
adequate safeguards are in place to protect U.S. national
security. The National Industrial Security Program Operating
Manual (“NISPOM”) provides guidance for determining
whether U.S. companies are under FOCI and implements U.S.
Government policy for granting or continuing FCLs for U.S.
companies operating under FOCI.
Consistent with U.S. policy, the NISPOM recognizes that foreign
investment in the defense industrial base, when consistent with
national security interests, is also, more broadly, in the
national interest of the United States. The National
Industrial Security Program is designed, in part, to safeguard U.S.
Government contractors against improper foreign influence
or control.
