NCJ Number
197359
Journal
Jane's Intelligence Review Volume: 14 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2002 Pages: 24-26
Date Published
October 2002
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article reveals how Israeli counterterrorism activities are carried out.
Abstract
The author explains that the Israel Defense Force needs reliable, real-time intelligence information in order to carry out preventive security operations. In response to this need, the Field Intelligence Corps (FIC) was established as part of the Israeli Army Headquarters in April of 2000. This article explains what type of intelligence is gathered and shows how it is used in the field. The author describes the importance of gathering pre-mission intelligence in order to assess the threat and the environment of the next mission. Intelligence information in this capacity includes updates on where enemies are hiding and provides details on the terrain that will be encountered on the mission. The author then moves on to discuss the importance of airborne intelligence that is capable of providing real-time data about where suspected terrorist leaders are hiding. The author offers an example of a terrorist who was seen planting a bomb through the use of airborne sensors. Counterterrorist intelligence is also crucial in thwarting enemy plans. An example is presented in which a terrorist bombing is avoided due to on-the-spot interrogation techniques. Finally, the author shows how electronic intelligence was able to intercept phone and fax communications that ultimately led to the location of a Hamas bombmaker. In conclusion, the author notes that while technological intelligence is crucial to successful military missions and counterterrorism, there is no substitute for the intelligence gathering of real people.