The Intelligence authority of the NSS of RA is carrying out intelligence activities in accordance with its functional responsibilities in the territory of the Republic of Armenia and from the territories of foreign states within its competences envisaged by RA legislation and under the law of the Republic of Armenia on ‘’RA National security authorities’’. Under the Charter of the National Security Service of the Republic of Armenia, the NSS of RA carries out the operational governance of the work of all state bodies and units that carry out intelligence activities related to the national security matters in the territory of Armenia.
The intelligence authority of the NSS of RA is one of the key components of the national security in the state governance system, and it is aimed to protect the individual, society and state security from external threats. 
Within the framework of its functions the intelligence authority obtains, develops and analyses intelligence to report to the top leadership of RA in order to confront the national security challenges of RA and external threats against the state, as well as to to give effective solutions to the problems concerning the vital interests of RA in the area of foreign policy. While carrying out its intelligence activities to deal with the problems it faces, it also supports the normal development of Armenia in the fields of military technology, economy, science and technology, etc.
Intelligence is one of the important tools of security and effective governance for every state. From the very first day of independence Armenian intelligence developed and strengthened in times of ordeals due to the effective use of best experience of Armenian statehood’s previous periods and developed and strengthened intelligence mind and peculiarities of this field.
The intelligence authority of the NSS of RA passed with honor the tests dictated by war conditions and took its important and irreplaceable position in the state governance system of Armenia in harmony with the development and progress of the state.
As a matter of fact everyday hard and responsible work of the officers of this field is not subject to disclosure and remains behind a veil of secrecy for decades due to the peculiarities of intelligence officer’s profession. Intelligence officers, not expecting public appreciation for their work, make their indispensable contribution for the achievement of the unwavering goal of progress and further development of the Republic of Armenia.

Intelligence officers of Armenian origin

Intelligence including foreign intelligence activities are the activities of national security authorities aimed at obtaining information on external and internal security threats and strengthening the foundations of the State.

The history of intelligence, especially the period of last two centuries, shows that the true intelligence officer, whatever character traits he has, first of all is known for his high intelligence and analyzing skills in particular. Intelligence is often defined as a battle field of highly intelligent people. Those are the people, who prove that intelligence activities during the war and peace are effective due to their quality rather than quantity.

According to intelligence history expert A. Sargsyan, the condition of the intelligence system of the State, in essence, reflects its “health”, i.e. its power and international reputation.
According to legendary intelligence officer Gevorg Vardanyan and his wife Gohar Vardanyan, the profession of intelligence officer is far from being а romantic adventure and, in reality, is based on selfless devotion and hard work. Since the ancient times intelligence officers of all nations have been digging up information particularly the information that has been and is being hidden from prying eyes.

The work of intelligence officer requires creative approach due to which it becomes possible to make a conclusion from “small things” and all known data, which sometimes may be of vital importance to the State. That’s why the intelligence officer is required to be not only in excellent mental and psychological condition but also have physical training, commitment, endurance, hardworking qualities etc.

A look back at the history makes apparent that these features are typical for the representatives of our nation. The passed millenniums: fight for motherland, struggles for the restoration of statehood and lack of resources, made us who we are.

This is the likely reason why Armenians are known for their brilliant specialists in the field of intelligence and with their direct participation intelligence structures and later new directions of operational activities have been established.