In the context of counter-insurgency, intelligence is primarily used for:

In counter-insurgency operations, understanding the needs and perspectives of the local population is vital for achieving success. This knowledge allows military forces to build trust, gain support, and ensure that their actions align with the interests and concerns of the community. By fostering positive relationships with local populations, military efforts can disrupt the insurgents' influence and mitigate the factors that contribute to unrest.

This approach emphasizes the importance of gathering and analyzing intelligence beyond just enemy resources or operational tactics. It involves engaging with the community to gain insights into their grievances, aspirations, and support for either the military or insurgent groups. Effective counter-insurgency often relies on the ability to connect with locals, as their cooperation can lead to valuable information and decrease the insurgents' power base.

Intelligence in this context is not solely about military logistics, such as managing supply lines or conducting air strikes, but rather about influencing the larger socio-political landscape to create a more stable environment. Understanding local perspectives enables military forces to tailor their strategies and operations to effectively counter insurgency threats while promoting long-term peace and stability.