What is a DFARS (Defense FAR Supplement)?
Also known as: Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement
The DFARS is the Department of Defense's supplement to the FAR, adding defense-specific acquisition rules and clauses. It governs DoD-unique requirements such as cybersecurity safeguards, specialty metals, and supply-chain provisions.
What DFARS adds
- Cybersecurity requirements (for example, DFARS 252.204-7012 safeguarding of controlled unclassified information).
- Buy-American and specialty-metals sourcing rules.
- Defense-specific contract clauses and procedures layered on top of the FAR.
Why it matters
If you sell to DoD, you must comply with DFARS clauses in addition to the FAR. DFARS cybersecurity requirements connect directly to CMMC, which is becoming a condition of award on defense contracts.
Frequently asked questions
Does DFARS apply to all federal contracts?
No. DFARS applies to Department of Defense acquisitions. Civilian agencies follow the FAR plus their own agency supplements, not the DFARS.
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