Measurement and signature intelligence

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Measurement and signature intelligence (MASINT) is an intelligence discipline that uses scientific and technical analysis of data from sensing instruments to detect, measure, identify, or characterize the distinctive features ("signatures") of targets. Some MASINT techniques use purpose-built sensors, while others analyze imagery or signals collected via other intelligence disciplines.

In MASINT terminology, measurement refers to the quantitative parameters of a target, while a signature is a distinctive feature of a phenomenon, object, or piece of equipment as detected by collection instruments.

The classification used by the Center for MASINT Studies and Research divides MASINT into six major disciplines: electro-optical, nuclear, geophysical, radar, materials, and radiofrequency MASINT. These disciplines overlap with one another and interact with other forms of intelligence, including HUMINT, IMINT, and SIGINT. It can also overlap with technical intelligence (TECHINT), although TECHINT often involves direct examination of equipment or materials, whereas MASINT aims to infer their characteristics through remote sensing and analysis.

MASINT was recognized by the United States Department of Defense as an intelligence discipline in 1986.