We will have to continue to improve our human intelligence system-something that was, unfortunately, lacking in the years which led up to September 11. This is going to be a continuing process of change.

The quote "We will have to continue to improve our human intelligence system-something that was, unfortunately, lacking in the years which led up to September 11. This is going to be a continuing process of change" by John Sununu speaks to the need for improvement and adaptation in the intelligence community. Sununu is addressing the critical shortcomings in human intelligence (HUMINT) that were exposed by the 9/11 attacks. He suggests that the intelligence system was not sufficiently prepared for the level of threat faced and emphasizes that ongoing reform is essential for national security.

John Sununu, a former governor of New Hampshire and chief of staff to President George H. W. Bush, made this statement in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks. The quote reflects the widespread acknowledgment that intelligence failures played a role in allowing the attacks to happen. The lack of preparedness and insufficient coordination among intelligence agencies highlighted the need for significant reform and enhancement of intelligence gathering, particularly in human sources.

The idea of a continuing process of change points to the evolving nature of global threats. Sununu recognizes that in order to stay ahead of adversaries, intelligence systems must be in a state of constant adaptation. The changing landscape of terrorism, cyber threats, and other emerging dangers requires a proactive approach to improving intelligence, which is not just about gathering information but also ensuring that it is accurate, timely, and actionable.

Overall, Sununu’s words serve as a call to action for the intelligence community to evolve and improve, emphasizing that the lessons learned from September 11 should lead to systemic changes that enhance the nation’s ability to prevent future threats. The need for ongoing innovation and change in intelligence practices remains a central theme in ensuring national security in the face of an ever-changing world.