OSINT in support of the Defence Intelligence Enterprise (DIE) - part one
Oct 3, 2023
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Former director of the DIA, Robert Ashley Jr., joins hosts to discuss the use of open-source intelligence in defense intelligence. They explore the challenges and benefits of integrating OSINT, the importance of OSINT in the defense intelligence enterprise, and the difficulties of economically viable intelligence gathering and protecting personal information.
Open source intelligence (OSINT) was initially considered non-mainstream but is now recognized for its strategic potential in providing valuable information for the defense intelligence community.
Open source intelligence (OSINT) has significantly increased in awareness and use, providing real-time, easily accessible information that complements traditional intelligence sources and presenting opportunities for collaboration between the intelligence community and commercial entities.
Deep dives
The Journey of Open Source Intelligence
The podcast episode features an interview with Lieutenant General Robert Ashley Jr., discussing the journey and integration of open source intelligence (OSINT) in the defense intelligence community. Lt. Gen. Ashley highlights that OSINT was initially considered non-mainstream but gradually recognized its strategic potential in providing valuable information. He notes that discussions about OSINT integration began during his tenure at the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) and emphasizes the need to go beyond data collection to focus on analytic production. The potential of leveraging commercial capabilities and partnerships with organizations like Bellingcat and James is also discussed. The conversation underscores the importance of bringing together thought leaders from the open source intelligence community and influential figures within the intelligence community to explore the possibilities and strengthen integration.
The Growing Awareness of Open Source Intelligence
The podcast participants note that the awareness and use of open source intelligence has significantly increased, especially after events like the Ukraine conflict. They highlight that open source intelligence provides real-time, easily accessible information that complements traditional intelligence sources. The evolving technological landscape has made it easier to analyze and present open source information effectively. The conversation touches upon the shifting perception of open source intelligence from being a supplemental tool to becoming an indispensable part of intelligence analysis. The discussion emphasizes the need for policymakers, analysts, and the public to recognize the value and potential applications of open source intelligence.
Challenges and Opportunities in Open Source Intelligence Governance
The podcast delves into the challenges and opportunities related to governance in open source intelligence. The conversation highlights the need for a structured approach to acquire, integrate, and provision open source information within the defense intelligence enterprise. Concerns about privacy and personally identifiable information emerge as key governance issues, calling for appropriate safeguards to protect sensitive data. The participants discuss the importance of a centralized and efficient acquisition process to avoid redundancy and ensure cost-effectiveness. They stress the significance of trade craft, ethical standards, and the development of a common understanding between the intelligence community and commercial sector to strengthen governance measures.
The Future of Open Source Intelligence Integration
The podcast concludes with a focus on the future of open source intelligence integration. The participants highlight the need for continued collaboration between the intelligence community and commercial entities. They suggest bringing together thought leaders from both sides to explore the art of the possible and identify opportunities for leveraging commercial capabilities in analytic production. The conversation emphasizes the value of integrating open source intelligence into broader intelligence frameworks, such as the National Intelligence Priorities Framework, to enhance understanding and support decision-making in the context of national security. The participants anticipate an ongoing evolution in open source intelligence integration and stress the importance of effectively integrating and utilizing multi-source intelligence to meet the complex and evolving challenges faced by the intelligence community.
Robert Ashley Jr. former director of the DIA joins Harry Kemsley and Sean Corbett to discuss the use of open-source intelligence in the defence intelligence enterprise and the opportunities OSINT provides to intelligence communities.
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