National Security Decision Directive 108: Soviet Camouflage, Concealment and Deception   [open pdf - 99KB]

Alternate Title: NSDD 108: Soviet Camouflage, Concealment and Deception

"The Soviet Union has developed a doctrine of 'maskirovka' which calls for the use of camouflage, concealment and deception (CC&D) in defense-related programs and in the conduct of military operations. They define maskirovka as a set of measures to deceive, or mislead, the enemy with respect to Soviet national security capabilities, actions, and intentions. These measures include concealment, simulation, diversionary actions and disinformation. […] Integral to development and deployment of strategic and tactical weapons systems, is establishment and execution of a plan for maskirovka. A Soviet Directorate for strategic maskirovka has been established and its directives are carried out by numerous elements of the Soviet government. Additionally, the Soviets have established a program to counter western signal and imagery intelligence collection. The Soviets may be attempting to deceive the West regarding the intent and purpose of basic policies, e.g., arms control. […] Several recent discoveries reveal that the Soviet maskirovka program has enjoyed previously unsuspected success and that it is apparently entering a new and improved phase. Many of these discoveries resulted only after concentrated and intensive examination of intelligence accumulated over many years."