Updated Information as of 2023

The CIA Special Activities Center (SAC) and CIA Global Response Staff (GRS) are two distinct entities within the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) that serve different roles in supporting global operations.

CIA Special Activities Center (SAC)

The CIA Special Activities Center (SAC) is an elite division within the CIA responsible for conducting covert and unconventional operations. The SAC consists of specialized units that carry out clandestine activities, including paramilitary operations, sabotage, intelligence gathering, and direct action missions. Their operations often involve working closely with military special operations forces.

The SAC’s personnel are highly trained individuals who are experts in their respective fields, whether it be intelligence gathering, logistics, or operational planning. They operate primarily in overseas locations and are known for their ability to work discreetly and adapt to rapidly changing situations.

CIA Global Response Staff (GRS)

The CIA Global Response Staff (GRS) is a separate component within the CIA that provides the agency with a quick response capability during crisis situations. The GRS is primarily responsible for providing security and protective services to CIA personnel and facilities worldwide.

GRS personnel are trained to provide immediate and effective protection to CIA personnel operating in high-risk environments. This includes providing armed security, conducting emergency medical support, and performing emergency response functions. GRS teams are often deployed in response to critical incidents such as terrorist attacks, kidnappings, or natural disasters.

How

The CIA Special Activities Center operates by leveraging its highly specialized personnel and resources to carry out covert operations, while the CIA Global Response Staff focuses on providing security and protective services to CIA personnel and facilities in crisis situations.

Why

The CIA maintains both the SAC and GRS to ensure the success of its global operations and to protect its assets and personnel worldwide. The SAC enables the CIA to conduct clandestine activities and gather critical intelligence, while the GRS ensures the safety and security of CIA personnel in high-risk environments.

When

The SAC and GRS are continuously operating entities within the CIA. They are always prepared to respond to evolving threats and crisis situations around the world.

Where

The CIA Special Activities Center and CIA Global Response Staff operate globally, with their activities spanning various countries and regions where the CIA has strategic interests.

Who

The CIA’s Special Activities Center is staffed by highly trained operatives with expertise in intelligence, paramilitary operations, and unconventional warfare. These individuals work closely with other intelligence agencies and military special operations forces.

The CIA’s Global Response Staff is composed of security professionals who specialize in providing immediate security and emergency response services. They work closely with CIA personnel and facilities worldwide.

Sources:

• Global Response Staff – Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)
• Special Activities Center – Central Intelligence Agency (CIA)

Last accessed: July 2023