Overview
FAR 17.701 establishes the specific vocabulary required to implement policies governing interagency acquisitions where a non-DoD agency procures goods or services on behalf of the Department of Defense. It clarifies which individuals hold approval authority and distinguishes between general nondefense agencies and those within the intelligence community.
Key Rules
- DoD Acquisition Official: Includes not only warranted Contracting Officers but also any official authorized to approve direct or assisted acquisitions for the DoD.
- Nondefense Agency: Broadly defined as any executive department or Federal Government agency that is not the Department of Defense.
- Intelligence Community Elements: Specifically identifies nondefense entities governed by 50 U.S.C. 3003(4), including the CIA, ODNI, and specialized intelligence branches within the Departments of State, Treasury, Energy, Justice (FBI/DEA), and Homeland Security.
- Scope of Authority: The definitions ensure that requirements for "assisted acquisitions" apply to a wide range of civilian-led procurement activities performed for defense purposes.
Practical Implications
- Identification of Stakeholders: DoD personnel must use these definitions to determine if a specific interagency transaction falls under the compliance requirements of FAR Subpart 17.7, which dictates how DoD funds are spent via civilian agencies.
- Compliance for Intelligence Orders: Because intelligence community elements are specifically listed, specialized oversight and statutory requirements apply when these agencies act as the servicing agency for a DoD requirement.