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Mission

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is an independent US Government agency responsible for providing national security intelligence to senior US policymakers.

For more on the Agency's mission, visit our Strategic Intent.
Central Intelligence Agency
The Work of a Nation. The Center of Intelligence

CIA

CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY (flash movie)
Featured Story

Remembering CIA's Heroes: James A. Rawlings

Since the formation of the Central Intelligence Agency in 1947, many brave men and women have made the ultimate sacrifice for the sake of the mission and their country. Their memory is honored with a star on the CIA Memorial Wall. If the person wasn’t undercover at the time of their death, their name appears in the Book of Honor. One such hero is James (Jim) A. Rawlings. Jim’s life was tragically cut short when his plane crashed in Vietnam. Jim’s legacy and love of the mission is carried on by his son, James Jr., who is a support officer at the Agency. more >

What's New

January 22 - Message from the Director: New Interrogation Policy.

January 21 - Transcript of Director Hayden's Interview with Fox News.

January 16 - Updated Chiefs of State and Cabinet Members of Foreign Governments. more>

January 9 - Message from the Director: Transition at CIA.

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Showcase

Take a step inside the CIA through our Headquarters Tour. Stroll down the CIA Museum corridor to see some of our artifacts. And learn about the CIA's history in our Interactive Timeline.