Integrate a Humint Operation (2) Support Vetting

¶ … integrate a HUMINT operation (2) support vetting process. You define specific approaches, basic source acquisition process a template identifying points integration.

HUMINT operations

Intelligence analysts play an essential role in HUMINT operations, taking into account that they are in charge of collection, processing and of exploitation. One of the most common form of intelligence that these analysts have to deal with is related to biographical intelligence, taking into account that they have to be able to realize when they are dealing with individuals who are likely to be dishonest. Such a person needs to deal with "people and their associated documents and media sources to identify elements, intentions, composition, strength, dispositions, tactics, equipment, personnel, and capabilities." (John A. United States Army, United States Marine Corps 119)

While most people are likely to consider interrogation when taking into account an intelligence analyst involved in a HUMINT operation, the reality is that such operations are much more complex and can entail a series of other procedures. Intelligence analysts need to interact with people that they are concerned about and to interview them in order to find out more information about their background and their relationship with the topic of interest.

Clandestine source acquisition is an important concept when dealing with HUMINT operations, as analysts need to collect photographs, documents, and all types of material that might incriminate an individual in order to be able to learn more concerning the respective person. Overt data collection is also an important step in a HUMINT operation, as analysts have to address both civilians and officials in their attempt to collect information.

In their efforts to come in possession of information that might prove to be vital, intelligence analysts also have to concentrate on debriefing individuals who come from foreign countries and U.S. citizens who have interacted with foreign mediums, taking into account that they are likely to have had access to important data. Circumstances are essential for intelligence analysts, as "during military operations, this would also include the interrogation or debriefing of prisoners of war or detainees." (A Guide to Intelligence) The fact that Soldiers and Marines are more likely to interact with the masses makes it possible for them to come in possession of significant information. Intelligence analysts thus need to be provided with this information in order for them to be able to verify it and to use the military as a tool to address persons who can provide important information.

Intelligence analysts are versatile and can thus collect information through a diverse range of means. In addition to covert operations they can also take on overt procedures in an attempt to learn more information concerning particular matters they are interested in. These individuals can develop complex relationships with foreign governments. Furthermore, they can come in connection with foreign intelligence or security services and can cooperate with the purpose to enrich their information database.

Intelligence analysts need to be able to put across trust, considering that they are probable to interact with individuals who fear for their safety and who want the fact that they are providing information to remain a secret. As a consequence, HUMINT involves analysts holding the authority to guarantee secrecy and to be able to keep their informants safe. "Careless handling of human sources by untrained personnel can result in murder or intimidation of these sources." (John A. United States Army, United States Marine Corps 120) Such events can undermine the image of U.S. HUMINT operations in general and can thus have disastrous consequences. This is why intelligence analysts are typically well-trained so as for them to be able to deal with pressing conditions and in order for HUMINT operations to involve very little risks both for sources and for individuals handling information.

Sources, individuals handling information, and individuals who want to work in branches that involve a lot of risk are likely to be subjected to complex security vetting in order for their employers to be able to learn more about them and to thus decide whether it would be wise for them to be provided with the opportunity to be a part of HUMINT operations. Intelligence analysts can be essential for particular employers, taking into account that they can discover contentious information concerning job candidates and can make the selection process more effective.