Langley's Talent: Inside the Technology Directorate of the CIA

Author: Richardson (USA) / Cao Huayin and others
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2002-04-01
Features: In the first comprehensive study of the CIA's Science and Technology Directorate, Richardson reveals many enigmatic details about the agency's projects and activities, many of which were never publicly disclosed before. For example, CIA agents:
· Designed, developed, and operated a series of high-tech imaging satellites, reconnaissance satellites, and aircraft, including KH-11 and "Rocky" satellites that dramatically expanded U.S. intelligence capabilities.
· Established ground stations in countries like Iran and Norway to monitor missile tests and control global embassy listening posts.
· Hired technical intelligence analysts and imagery interpreters to steal the secrets of other nations' missile and space programs, keeping tabs on global developments, including the Chernobyl nuclear power plant and the Gulf War.
· Designed a wide range of espionage equipment to support covert operations—from intelligence gathering to helping Americans escape danger in Iran to assisting the Delta Force in capturing Somali warlord Mohamed Farrah Aidid.
· Developed a critical part of heart pacemaker technology, advancing scientific and medical progress for other purposes.
· Attempted to use physics to steal military secrets from other countries.
· Used birds (and seemingly bird-like drones) and cats as intelligence-gathering platforms.