Five Eyes Alliance

GS III-Security

Context:

National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval recently hosted a high-level intelligence meeting with representatives from the Five Eyes alliance.

Origins & Formation

• World War II Beginnings: Originated with the BRUSA Agreement (1943), a secret pact between the U.S. War Department and the UK Government Code & Cypher School (GC&CS) for intelligence cooperation.
• Formalization: The UKUSA Agreement (1946) officially established this strategic intelligence-sharing partnership.
• Expansion of Membership:
  • Canada joined in 1949
  • Australia & New Zealand became members in 1956

Purpose & Oversight

• Core Objective: Facilitates multilateral intelligence-sharing to enhance national security, cybersecurity, and counterintelligence operations.
• Oversight Mechanism: The Five Eyes Intelligence Oversight and Review Council (2016) ensures non-political oversight and strengthens security coordination among members.

Significance

• Strengthens defence and security ties among English-speaking democracies.
• Enhances intelligence cooperation on cyber threats, espionage, and counterterrorism.
• Plays a crucial role in global surveillance, security alliances, and geopolitical strategy.