[eBook]Myanmar: The Making of an Intelligence State (Counterintelligence Challenges)

Without extensive intelligence systems, neither Myanmar’s kings nor the later British colonial administration could have maintained their dominance over the country’s diverse and fractious society. The collection of political and strategic intelligence was critical to their survival. After Myanmar regained its independence in 1948, a powerful military intelligence organization became key to the durability of the central government, including the junta created after the 2021 coup. Yet, intelligence has long been the “missing dimension” of Myanmar’s published history. To understand the internal dynamics and external relations of this deeply troubled country it needs to be paid much more attention. This study, by an Old Myanmar Hand and former intelligence analyst, draws on a wide range of sources to provide a comprehensive picture of the structure, operations and impact of Myanmar’s intelligence apparatus, from the nineteenth century to the present day. In doing so, it makes a unique contribution both to the field of intelligence studies and to our understanding of modern Myanmar.