DGSE: The French External Intelligence Service
Mission and Organization
The DGSE (Direction Générale de la Sécurité Extérieure) is France's external intelligence agency, responsible for gathering intelligence worldwide and informing top government officials. With over 7,200 agents, the DGSE operates under the Ministry of Armed Forces and collaborates with the DGSI (General Directorate for Internal Security).
The agency's mission includes counterterrorism, cyberdefense, and protecting French interests abroad. Its operations and organization are highly classified, but it is known to maintain close partnerships with national and international intelligence services.
Headquarters and History
The DGSE is headquartered in Paris and is currently headed by Bernard Emié. The agency was established in 1982, succeeding the SDECE (Service de Documentation Extérieure et de Contre-Espionnage). It has undergone significant organizational changes over the years, including a major move to Fort de Vincennes in 2028.
The DGSE has played a significant role in French intelligence history, including notable operations such as the kidnapping of Mehdi Ben Barka and the investigation of chemical weapons use. Its future plans include continuing to strengthen its capabilities and maintaining its position as France's leading external intelligence agency.
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