Nato open source intelligence handbook

This publication provides preliminary joint and coalition training information on the subject of Open Source Intelligence (OSINT). It discusses the fundamentals of OSINT support to both the all-source intelligence process, and to the unclassified intelligence requirements of operators, logisticians, and civilian organizations participating in joint and coalition operations. The focus is on relevant information that can be obtained legally and ethically from the public and private sector, and that is not classified in its origin or processing. The information may become classified in relation to the commander's intent or its association with classified information when it is rightly blended into all-source intelligence reports.

This publication has been prepared under my direction as the Supreme Allied Commander, Atlantic, in collaboration with staff from the Supreme Allied Commander, Europe (SACEUR). This publication has benefited greatly from the continued collaboration between my staff and the staff of Open Source Solutions Inc. With the publication of this document and its companions, the Intelligence Exploitation of the Internet and the NATO OSINT Reader, commanders and their staffs will have basic guidance for the development of OSINT.

The increasingly robust array of open sources available to all staffs enable commanders at all levels to attempt to satisfy their information requirements themselves rather than immediately directing Requests for Information (RFIs) elsewhere. This manual outlines a systematic approach to OSINT exploitation.

This information is relevant to all NATO commands, task forces, member nations, civilmilitary committees and working groups, and such other organizations that may be planning or engaged in combined joint operations.

W. F. KERNAN

General, U.S. Army T