Scaling the Analyst: The Promise of AI in Intelligence Work

Originally published on 26 June 2025

In an era of exponential data growth, geopolitical disruption, and rising regulatory complexity, intelligence professionals are being asked to deliver more insight, at greater speed, with fewer resources.

From national security and law enforcement to cyber defence and commercial risk, the pressure on intelligence teams continues to grow. Yet most organisations, especially in middle-power nations or lean corporate environments, face structural limits on time, staffing, and budget.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers a compelling, though complex, response.

Properly implemented, AI functions as a force multiplier, automating routine tasks, accelerating pattern recognition, and extending the reach of human analysis. Whether supporting counter-threat efforts, identifying fraud, or detecting coordinated disinformation, AI enables analysts to move faster and work smarter.

Key benefits include:

• Speed and scale across vast, multi-source data environments
• Automation of time-consuming tasks like transcription, translation, and data de-duplication
• Enhanced detection of patterns and outliers that humans may miss
• Improved situational awareness through AI-powered visualisation tools
• Support for structured analytic techniques like hypothesis testing and red-teaming

Unlocking AI’s potential is not simply about acquiring tools; it’s about designing systems and the workforce that augment judgment, not override it.

At the Institute for Intelligence Professionalisation, we are focused on the systems, standards, and strategic enablers that support a capable, ethical, and future-ready intelligence profession, including the effective adoption of AI.

This is the first in a three-part series on AI in intelligence work. Next week, we’ll examine how to navigate the risks and challenges of AI integration.