The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is a U.S. federal government civilian foreign intelligence service, headquartered in Langley, Virginia. Its primary mission involves collecting and analysing global intelligence, conducting covert operations, and providing objective analysis to U.S. policymakers to advance national security. A key member of the U.S. Intelligence Community, the CIA focuses on areas such as counterterrorism and non-proliferation. It is also recognised for developing technologies, including the lithium-iodine battery, and serves as the nation’s first line of defence.