Terrorism and intelligence

Surprise is a crucial element in a successful terrorist attack. The terrorist chooses the time, location, and circumstances of the attack in order to neutralize the potentially greater strength of the defense forces. In a modern, interdependent society the target opportunities are manifold. An attempt to protect all potential targets would impose intolerable burdens on both the economic and social structure. Interception of the terrorist prior to his attacks thus becomes a key element in the rational response to the threat of terrorism. Interception requires timely and accurate information about the activities of those directly involved in terrorist activities and, equally important, about their network of supporters who provide shelter, equipment, and other assistance. The intelligence process seeks to provide such information. Properly conceived, the intelligence process is neither simple nor magical. It is much more than a name check against existing files. It is in fact an application of the scientific method. Language: en