DAFI51-403 — International Agreements

DAFI51-403 governs the negotiation, conclusion, amendment, reporting, and compliance of international agreements.

Search DAFI51-403

  • Publication number: DAFI51-403
  • Title: INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS
  • Date: 2019-02-08

View DAFI51-403 on armypubs.army.mil


It addresses oral agreements, foreign-language texts, advance payment terms, negotiating histories, and offices of record. It requires coordination, approvals, certifications, reporting, and compliance oversight for covered agreements.

Applies to: As such, this publication applies to all United States Space Force (USSF), Regular Air Force, Air Force Reserve, and Air National Guard military and civilian personnel and those with a contractual obligation to abide by the terms of the Department of the Air Force (DAF) publications.

Topics covered

  • International agreement negotiation
  • International agreement amendments
  • Oral agreements
  • Foreign-language agreements
  • Advance payment terms
  • Agreement reporting
  • Negotiating history files
  • Compliance issues

Questions and answers

How must an oral international agreement be documented?

The authorized Air Force representative who enters into an oral agreement must put it in writing. (paragraph 5)

What must certification of a foreign-language agreement state?

The certification will state that the foreign language text and the English language text are in conformity with each other and have the same meaning in all substantive respects. (paragraph 6)

Which authorities authorize advance payments to foreign governments and international organizations?

Only 10 USC 2396, Advances for payment for compliance with foreign laws, etc., and 10 USC § 2307, Contract financing, authorize advance payments to foreign governments and international organizations. (paragraph 3)

When must a reproducible copy of an international agreement be sent to the DoW/GC?

Ensure one reproducible copy of each international agreement is sent to the DoW/GC not later than fifteen (15) calendar days after the agreement or arrangement is signed or otherwise concluded, or enters into force or effect, whichever occurs first, in accordance with Attachment 3 of this instruction.

How long must an international agreement negotiating history file be maintained?

The historical file must be maintained for the duration of the agreement or until it no longer has legal significance, whichever is longer. (paragraph 9)

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