Naval Intelligence Activity

The Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI), a U.S. government agency under the Department of the Navy, holds and analyzes UAP data as mandated by Congress. Established in 1882, it is headquartered in Suitland, Maryland, and serves as the primary intelligence arm for naval operations. Key activities include collecting intelligence on maritime threats, with notable involvement in UAP through hosting the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Task Force (UAPTF) launched on August 14, 2020, to investigate military sightings, predominantly from Navy pilots between 2004-2021. The UAPTF produced a 2021 preliminary assessment of 144 cases, categorizing them into clutter, natural phenomena, U.S. programs, foreign systems, or 'other,' highlighting 11 near-misses and unusual flight traits requiring further study. ONI contributed data to the ODNI report, emphasizing sensor data from advanced systems. No extraterrestrial conclusions were reached; focus remains on safety and security. Currently active, ONI supports ongoing UAP efforts alongside AARO, established in 2022.