National and IC Strategy Development
The National Counterintelligence and Security Center (NCSC) is responsible for developing and overseeing National CI and Security Policy. The National Counterintelligence Policy Board, established under the Counterintelligence and Security Enhancements Act of 1994, serves as the principal mechanism for creating national policies and procedures that guide the conduct of counterintelligence activities across the U.S. Government.
Additionally, the NCSC ensures alignment of policies related to personnel security, suitability, access to sensitive positions, and access to classified information. These policies aim for reciprocal recognition and protection of national security information.
One specific strategy is the National Counterintelligence Strategy. This strategy plays a crucial role in safeguarding the United States against foreign intelligence threats by outlining how the U.S. Government will address foreign intelligence threats. It focuses on a few key strategic objectives:
- Protecting the American People and Homeland: By countering espionage and other harmful intelligence activities conducted by foreign adversaries.
- Promoting American Prosperity: By safeguarding the economy from theft of technology and intellectual property by foreign adversaries.
- Preserving Peace and Security: By actively countering aggressive foreign intelligence services that work against democracy, U.S. allies, and national security priorities.
The United States faces an array of threats from foreign intelligence services. These adversaries employ sophisticated methods to harm U.S. interests, interfere with elections, and erode economic and military superiority. The strategy emphasizes collaboration between the U.S. Government, private industry, and the public to strengthen counterintelligence capabilities and secure the nation.
NCSC leads the development, implementation, and assessment of the Unifying Intelligence Strategy for Counterintelligence (Intelligence Community) . It aims to unify counterintelligence efforts across the Intelligence Community (IC) by identifying gaps, making recommendations, and shaping resource decisions, the strategy enhances the IC’s ability to anticipate and deter foreign intelligence threats.
In summary, the National Counterintelligence Strategy serves as a vital blueprint for protecting national security, economic interests, and democratic values against foreign adversaries. Collaboration and vigilance remain essential in this ongoing effort.
