Defense Intelligence Agency

The Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) coordinates all-source intelligence activities for the secretary of defense, Joint Chiefs of Staff, and military commanders as well as the intelligence community. Considered to be the head of military intelligence, the DIA coordinates intelligence communities within the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Army, and Air Force. The DIA employs both military and civilian personnel and places an emphasis on military intelligence sharing. This entry describes the background and creation of the DIA and the current strategic plan.

Background and Creation of the DIA

The creation of the DIA was approved by Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara on July 5, 1961, with a public announcement on August 1, 1961. It became fully operational on October 1, 1961. The creation of the DIA was a ...

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