Defense Intelligence Agency: A Brief History

Impetus for DIA
Creating DIA bolstered DoD's efforts to improve
the military intelligence system by merging many of its
functions under a single authority. The Agency was
established to:
Unify the intelligence efforts of the DoD and eliminate
unnecessary duplication.
Strengthen DoD-wide collection, production, and
dissemination of intelligence.
Provide more efficient management and use of
resources.
A BRIEF HISTORY
During these early years of DIA's existence, Agency attempts to
establish itself as DoD's central military intelligence organization
met with continuing Service opposition. At the same time, the
Vietnam War severely tested the fledgling Agency's ability to
produce accurate, timely intelligence. In particular, the war
increased Defense intelligence's involvement in efforts to account
for American Service members missing or captured in Southeast
Asia.
DIA analysts focused during the 1960's on China's detonation of an
atomic bomb and the launching of its cultural revolution; increasing
unrest among African nations; and, fighting in Malaysia, Cyprus,
and Kashmir. In the late 1960's, crises that tested Defense
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