Office of Naval Intelligence

The Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI) is the military intelligence agency of the United States Navy. It was started in 1882 to help make the Navy better. ONI is the oldest part of the U.S. Intelligence Community and gives important information about oceans and ships.

Since the First World War, ONI has done many important jobs. It watches what other countries' navies are doing, keeps sea resources safe, and looks for dangers on the water. ONI also helps the U.S. Navy and its partners. The office has more than 3,000 military and civilian workers around the world. Its main office is at the National Maritime Intelligence Center in Suitland, Maryland.

History

After playing an important role in the American Civil War, the U.S. Navy became weaker. It had fewer ships and older technology than other countries. By the late 1800s, many people thought the Navy needed to modernize to protect America.

To help rebuild the Navy, a special office called the Office of Naval Intelligence was created in 1882. Its job was to collect information about other countries' navies and new naval technologies. This office grew over time, especially during big conflicts like the Spanish–American War and the First World War. It helped protect American ships and gave important information to Navy leaders.

During the Second World War, the office expanded even more. It trained officers, gave key information about enemy ships, and helped plan naval missions. After the war, the office continued to grow, especially during the Cold War, when it watched foreign navies and found new ways to gather information. Today, the Office of Naval Intelligence supports the Navy and works with other agencies to watch global maritime activities.

Organization and personnel

The Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI) helps the Navy learn about its enemies and improve its technology. It is based at the National Maritime Intelligence Center in Suitland, Maryland, and works with five important teams.

ONI is led by a commander who also directs the National Maritime Intelligence-Integration Office. There are also a deputy commander, a chief staff officer, and a command master chief to help run the office. ONI has over 3,000 military and civilian workers, including intelligence experts, scientists, engineers, and Navy Reservists.

Nimitz Operational Intelligence Center

Main article: Nimitz Operational Intelligence Center

The Nimitz Operational Intelligence Center, named after Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, focuses on learning about ships and maritime activities around the world. It helps the Navy stay strong by giving quick and exact information about other naval forces.

Farragut Technical Analysis Center

Named for Admiral David Farragut, this center studies foreign technologies, sensors, weapons, and other naval tools. It looks at many kinds of information to understand what other countries are doing.

Kennedy Irregular Warfare Center

Named for President John F. Kennedy, this center supports special Navy forces by giving them information about unusual threats. Its analysts help in many special tasks.

Hopper Information Services Center

Named for Rear Admiral Grace Hopper, this center provides technology services to help ONI’s work around the world. It has many information technology experts in many countries.

Brooks Center for Maritime Engagement

Named for Rear Admiral Thomas A. Brooks, this center was started on 13 July 2016 to help with maritime issues.