Tuesday, December 10, 2013

CIA's $3 Billion Anti-Terrorism Operation Called A 'Colossal Flop'

CIA's Anti-Terrorism Effort Called 'Colossal Flop' -- L.A. Times

CIA officers given 'non-official cover,' often posing as business executives, tried to collect intelligence on terrorists. The NOC program reportedly has had few successes.

WASHINGTON — Several years ago, a senior officer in the CIA clandestine service attended a closed-door conference for overseas operatives. Speakers included case officers who were working in the manner Hollywood usually portrays spies — out on their own.

Most CIA officers abroad pose as U.S. diplomats. But those given what's called non-official cover are known as NOCs, pronounced "knocks," and they typically pose as business executives. At the forum, the NOCs spoke of their cover jobs, their false identities and measures taken to protect them. Few said much about gathering intelligence.

A colleague passed a caustic note to the senior officer. "Lots of business," it read. "Little espionage."

Read more ....

More News On The CIA Admitting That It's Anti-Terrorism Operation Is A 'Colossal Flop'

CIA admits $3 billion intelligence operation was a flop -- Washington Times
CIA's multibillion dollar spy program ends up being 'a colossal flop' -- RT
CIA program in which agents posed as business people a 'flop' -- UPI
CIA Spy Program Has Been a “Colossal Flop” -- Slate

My Comment: I would love to look at this operation's entertainment./PR budget.

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