Intelligence

MASINT

MASINT stands for measurement and signatures intelligence. It is scientific and technical intelligence information acquired by quantitative and qualitative data analysis from specialized technological sensors for the identification of characteristic features connected to the sender[1]. Measurement refers to the collected data for achieving restricted metric parameters while signature refers to the data indicating the distinguishing features of phenomena as they are sensed by the collection device. The signature recognizes the phenomena or object after detection of its exclusive features. MASINT is known for detecting information patterns that were not formerly exploited by sensors. Its sensors collect information that is considered marginal by the target country. This feature is given by the fact that it operates in different parts of electromagnet spectrums. Some of the MASINT branches include nuclear intelligence (NUCINT), infrared intelligence (IRINT) and radar intelligence (RADINT)[2].

MASINT is one of the most important collection type because it is incorporated with “distinct collection activities” making it a favorable approach for both strategic and tactical applications[3]. The fact that it uses sensors enables it to construct analysis models because it is less on intelligence collection. MASINT’s ability to put collected intelligence into categories has made it a favorite for national strategies. It provides cues for other strike systems, which is convenient for strategic protection measures in most countries. MASINT enables its users to obtain information from the periphery of interest areas, and it has potential for unmatched display capabilities. MASINT’s capability in detecting information patterns that were not formerly exploited by sensors has increased its popularity.

SIGINT

SIGINT means signal intelligence, and it is derived from signal intercepts that are made up of all communications intelligence (COMINT), foreign instrumentation signals intelligence (FISINT) and electronic intelligence (ELINT)[4]. Communication intelligence includes information obtained from intercepted communications transmissions such as voice traffic, Morse code traffic and facsimile messages. COMINT is collected from transmission mediums like fibre optics, airwaves and cables. Electronic intelligence intercepts and analyzes non-communication transmissions such as radar. It identifies emitter locations, establishes their characteristics and deduces attributes of supported systems. FISINT interrupts enemy weapon systems while they are being tested. It consists of telemetry units that provide information on the operational characteristics of a prototype. The collected data enhances the evaluation of prototype performance.

SIGINT is thought to be significant because it provides fundamental functions including “diplomatic, military, scientific, and economic capabilities and plans of nations”[5]. It detects terrorist activities. The United States homeland security uses it in covert locations for national security purposes. SIGINT helps in monitoring transmissions from communications satellites and universal facilities. This feature is crucial as international transmissions originating in America depend on communication satellites such as the International Maritime Satellite System, the European Satellite System and the International Telecommunications Satellite System. Russian and Chinese intelligence services regularly monitor international communications satellites. It possesses potential for almost instantaneous information. It determines activity levels and changes in these levels. The satellite makes it possible to obtain organizational structure and battle orders. SIGINT determines site function and approximates emitter location depending on the system’s accuracy capabilities.

Bibliography

Clark, David J. 2006. The vital role of intelligence in counterinsurgency operations. Carlisle Barracks, Pa: U.S. Army War College.

Randol, Mark A. 2009. Homeland Security Intelligence: Perceptions, Statutory Definitions, and Approaches. Ft. Belvoir: Defense Technical Information Center. http://handle.dtic.mil/100.2/ADA512995.

Richelson, Jeffrey. 2008. The US intelligence community. Boulder, Colo: Westview Press.

United States. 2011. U.S. national intelligence an overview. [Washington, D.C.]: Office of the Director of National Intelligence. http://purl.fdlp.gov/GPO/gpo19700.

[1] Clark, David J. 2006. The vital role of intelligence in counterinsurgency operations. Carlisle Barracks, Pa: U.S. Army War College.

[2] United States. 2011. U.S. national intelligence an overview. [Washington, D.C.]: Office of the Director of National Intelligence. http://purl.fdlp.gov/GPO/gpo19700.

[3] Richelson, Jeffrey. 2008. The US intelligence community. Boulder, Colo: Westview Press.

[4] Randol, Mark A. 2009. Homeland Security Intelligence: Perceptions, Statutory Definitions, and Approaches. Ft. Belvoir: Defense Technical Information Center. http://handle.dtic.mil/100.2/ADA512995.

[5] Richelson, Jeffrey. 2008. The US intelligence community. Boulder, Colo: Westview Press.