How must requests for authority to negotiate agreements be handled?

Requests for authority to negotiate agreements should be sent to the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy because this position is responsible for overseeing and coordinating defense policies, including international agreements and foreign relations. The Under Secretary acts as a critical link between the various branches of the military and the defense sector's diplomacy efforts, thereby ensuring that negotiations align with broader national security objectives and policies.

Handling these requests at the local level or ignoring them undermines the structured approach and oversight that is necessary for maintaining coherent and effective foreign relations. Additionally, while requests could logically follow a path to higher authority, forwarding directly to the Secretary of Defense is not the typical protocol, as it bypasses the appropriate level of coordination that the Under Secretary provides.