Frequently Asked Questions

What does the DIA do?

The Defense Intelligence Agency is a Department of Defense combat support agency that produces, analyzes and disseminates military intelligence information.

Who works for the DIA?

Our workforce is a diverse mix of soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines and Department of Defense civilian employees.

How many people work for the DIA and what is its budget?

More than 16,500 men and women work for DIA worldwide. The exact numbers and specific budget information are not publicly released due to security considerations. The budget is based on justified requirements and is scrutinized by oversight officials within the Department of Defense and Congressional committees.

What is the meaning of the DIA seal?

The gold flaming torch represents knowledge. The earth represents our global intelligence mission. The red atomic ellipses symbolize the scientific and technical aspects of intelligence today and of the future. The 13 stars and the wreath are adopted from the Department of Defense (DoD) seal and identify the Agency as a DoD organization. (View restrictions on use/display)

What is the difference between the Defense Intelligence Agency and the Central Intelligence Agency?

The DIA serves as the Nation's primary manager and producer of foreign military intelligence and as a Combat Support Agency of the Department of Defense (DoD). It fills a critically important need for a central intelligence producer and manager for the DOD to support directly the Secretary of Defense, the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), the Unified Combatant Command and the Military Services. While DIA and CIA are both members of the Intelligence Community, DIA is the principal source for military-related foreign intelligence. CIA is focused on providing foreign intelligence to the President, Vice President, National Security Council and members of the Cabinet.

How do I go about doing business or contracting with DIA?

For information on DIA contracting procedures, please refer to the Contracting section.

The DIA is part of the United States Intelligence Community. Who are the other members of the Intelligence Community?

The Intelligence Community (IC) is led by the Director of National Intelligence and comprises of 16 elements:

• Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)
• Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA)
• Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
• Marine Corps Intelligence
• National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA)
• National Reconnaissance Office (NRO)
• National Security Agency (NSA)
• Office of Naval Intelligence
• U.S. Air Force, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance
• U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command
• U.S. Coast Guard
• U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
• U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
• U.S. Department of State (DOS)
• U.S. Treasury Department
• Drug Enforcement Administration's Office of National Security Intelligence (DEA)

How do I apply for employment at DIA?

Individuals interested in employment at DIA must select "Careers" from the DIA website. Within the careers section, click "Vacancies" – and proceed to our online application process.

Does DIA offer summer internships to college students?

The DIA summer intern program provides promising undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to gain valuable work experience during temporary employment with the Agency. For information on the program's eligibility requirements, application submission process and deadlines, please refer to the careers section of the DIA Homepage and see the special recruitment programs.