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The Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI) is responsible for gathering intelligence on naval deployments, pirates, and terrorists worldwide. It has evolved since its creation in 1882 and is now tasked with preventing criminal acts on the high seas, protecting coastal cities, and providing details on enemy movements. ONI’s headquarters is in Maryland, and it is the oldest agency in the US intelligence community, with other military intelligence organizations relying on it for the latest maritime intelligence.
Marine intelligence in the United States is conducted by the Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI). ONI was created in 1882 to provide intelligence for the expanding United States Navy. ONI’s role has evolved as the United States Navy has grown to respond to conflicts such as the Spanish-American War and World War II. This intelligence organization is responsible for gathering intelligence on the naval deployments of nations, pirates and terrorists around the world. The information collected by ONI is analyzed by naval officers and civilians to determine the consequences for the national security of the United States.
ONI has evolved significantly from its humble beginnings. The bureau’s first Navy intelligence campaign occurred during the Spanish–American War. ONI was responsible for monitoring the advance of the Spanish fleet near Cuba. The federal government also relied on ONI to investigate suspected sabotage aboard U.S. vessels prior to the war.
The federal government relied on ONI maps, broken naval codes, and other information during World War I and II. ONI was especially important in tracking Nazi naval maneuvers in the Atlantic after 1941. This naval intelligence agency gained prominence in the 21st century as pirates and terrorists took to the ocean.
ONI’s mission is defined by four objectives. ONI is tasked with gathering information that can prevent criminal acts on the high seas. The second objective is to use naval intelligence and proactive measures to protect coastal cities around the world. This intelligence organization also protects natural resources vital to US interests. The ultimate goal defined by ONI’s mission is to provide details on enemy movements in order to prevent counterattacks in naval campaigns.
The National Maritime Intelligence Center in Suitland, Maryland is the headquarters of ONI. This center houses more than 3,000 people, including approximately 750 naval reservists who are familiar with intelligence operations. ONI’s command structure begins at the top with the Commander of the Office of Naval Intelligence. This leadership position filters communications and organizational tasks to the Deputy Commander and Chief of Staff. The Command Master Chief oversees Navy intelligence training for enlisted personnel at ONI.
ONI is the oldest agency within the 16-member US intelligence community. The longevity of the office has given ONI senior status among other military intelligence organizations. Marine Corps Intelligence and the Defense Intelligence Agency rely on ONI for the latest intelligence on maritime activity. Federal government agencies such as the Department of State and the Department of the Interior request reports to ONI to perform their civilian missions.
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