The Soviet atomic program: American intelligence and informants, 1945–1949

Abstract

Intelligence operations played at important role in the development of nuclear energy programs for military purposes in both the United States and the Soviet Union. While there is extensive information on Soviet intelligence activities in the USA, there remains a lack of information on American intelligence operations in the USSR. The author aims to examine the methods and sources used by American intelligence to gather information on Soviet nuclear capabilities from 1945 to 1949, a period marked by significant advancements in the Soviet atomic program. She highlights the importance of engaging with individuals involved in the Soviet atomic program as a key source of intelligence. By focusing on leadership structures, facility locations, and operational details, American intelligence services were able to gain valuable insights into the Soviet atomic program, albeit incomplete. This underscores the crucial role of Soviet atomic program’s secrecy and security measures in safeguarding national interests during the Cold War era.