### Question
How is the term defense agency defined?


### Answer
The term **defense agency** is defined in *5 U.S.C. § 5597* as the following:

> an agency of the Department of Defense, as further defined under regulations prescribed by the Secretary

#### Citation:
  - *5 U.S.C. § 5597*
  - Heading: **PART III-EMPLOYEES > Subpart D-Pay and Allowances > CHAPTER 55-PAY ADMINISTRATION > SUBCHAPTER IX-SEVERANCE PAY AND BACK PAY**

