Department of Defense regulations require that defense contractors maintain accountability of top secret information for a minimum of how many years?

The requirement for maintaining accountability of top secret information by defense contractors is set forth in the Department of Defense regulations. These regulations stipulate that contractors must account for and safeguard classified information, including top secret materials, to ensure national security. Specifically, the regulations mandate that accountability records for top secret information must be retained for a minimum of three years after the information has been processed or the contract has ended.

This timeframe ensures that there is sufficient oversight and documentation should any issues arise concerning the handling or dissemination of top secret information, which is critical in preventing unauthorized access or breaches that could compromise national security. Retaining these records allows for accountability and review, which is essential in a defense context where the stakes are particularly high. Thus, the emphasis on three years aligns with the need for thorough auditing and compliance within the defense contracting community.