What would a regular day look like for an intelligence officer when deployed?

Hi Sophie. Thanks for the question.

So I can only give a limited answer here as much of an Intelligence Officer's role on Operations is of course classified. There also is no 'regular' deployment and so no 'regular' day.

That said, on any Operation you'll typically get into a routine that allows you to do one or two PT sessions a day, so perhaps you're up early to go for a run or hit the gym (even if it is makeshift). Then it will be breakfast - whether from rations, a field kitchen, or something more permanent. You'll then catch up on the evening's activity/intelligence reporting in your assigned area of interest. The rest of the day will be spent leading a team of Intelligence analysts and perhaps conducting intelligence briefs to various commanders. If something is happening over night, either you or your team will be up to support the operation - perhaps making real-time, high pressure life or death assessments.

Depending on your role, you may be predominately 'office' based or you may be out in the field. It will all depend on what type of intelligence you are collecting and who you are supporting - do they need you right on the front line, or can you have the most impact further back but better connected?

I hope that answers your question. Feel free to find and follow us on Social Media. We regularly host webinars that discuss these topics with a range of different guest analysts.

Paul

Hi Paul, great answer! Just to clarify though, is your answer based on the linguist or cyber specialism please? And which specialism would you say has you out in the field more?

Lorenzo,

An Intelligence Corps officer will not do the linguist or cyber role, only manage the soldiers who do that trade. The above is based on a generic Int Corps officer and what they may see on an operation.

Paul