NIMA refers to the acronym for the National Imagery and Mapping Agency. Formerly known as the Defense Mapping Agency (DMA), NIMA was a United States government agency responsible for the collection, analysis, and dissemination of geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) and imagery intelligence (IMINT). It was established in 1996 and was subsequently merged into the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) in 2003.
As the primary federal agency responsible for providing accurate and comprehensive geospatial information to support defense and intelligence operations, NIMA played a critical role in ensuring national security. It collected and analyzed various types of imagery and mapping data, including satellite imagery, aerial photography, and terrain information. This information was processed, interpreted, and transformed into actionable intelligence to provide decision-makers with enhanced situational awareness and support military operations.
NIMA's work encompassed a wide range of activities, such as mapping, charting, geodesy, and providing digital and hard-copy products and databases. Additionally, it collaborated with other agencies, both domestically and internationally, to exchange and integrate geospatial intelligence. NIMA's efforts played a crucial role in supporting military planning, navigation, targeting, and intelligence collection.
Overall, NIMA's mission centered on ensuring that accurate and timely geospatial intelligence was readily accessible to government organizations and military forces, aiding in the protection of national security interests.
