When the FBI Comes Calling…®

British Secret Intelligence Service (BSIS) commonly known as MI6 (United Kingdom)

Founded:    Not known, but not formerly recognized until 1992

Mission:      Along with the CIA and Mossad, MI6 is among the most prestigious of foreign intelligence services in the world. With an estimated personnel of about 1,600, its reach is vast and its reputation great. Like the CIA, its primary functions revolve around HUMINT collection and covert paramilitary operations, deferring TECHINT operations to the GCHQ. Its charter is primary focused abroad, leaving internal intelligence operations for the MI5.

Structure:    Located under Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary, MI6 is responsible not only to that secretary, but ultimately to the Prime Minister. The Joint Intelligence Committee, located under the Secretary of the Cabinet, sets classified guidelines for operation.