Defence Intelligence Staff (DIS)
The DIS is an
essential element of the national intelligence machinery, but differs in a
number of important regards from the Agencies. It is not a stand-alone
organisation but is a constituent part of the Ministry of Defence (MOD). It
brings together expertise from all three Armed Forces as well as civilian
staff. It is funded within the Defence budget.
The DIS conducts all-source intelligence analysis from both overt and
covert sources. It provides intelligence assessments in support of
policy-making, crisis management and the generation of military capability.
These are used by the MOD,
military commands and deployed forces, as well as other Government
departments and to support the work of the
Joint Intelligence Committee.
In addition to such assessments, the DIS collects intelligence in direct
support of military operations, as well as in support of the operations of
the Agencies. This intelligence collection is authorised in accordance with
procedures laid down by the Regulation of
Investigatory Powers Act 2000 [External website].
The DIS also provides a wide range of geospatial services, including
mapping and charting, and a selection of intelligence-related training
activities at the Defence College of Intelligence.
The DIS was created in 1964 by the amalgamation of all three Armed
Services' intelligence staffs and the civilian Joint Intelligence
Bureau. The current Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI) is Air Marshal Stu
Peach, who took up office in 2006. In addition to his role as head of the
DIS, the CDI is
responsible for the overall co-ordination of intelligence activities
throughout the Armed Forces and single Service Commands.
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