February 9, 2026 at 6:00 PM
CIA overhauls acquisition to get new tech faster
The new framework includes a vendor-vetting system and streamlined IT authorization.
Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images By David DiMolfetta Cybersecurity Reporter, Nextgov/FCW February 9, 2026 Intelligence Acquisition Industry The Central Intelligence Agency is overhauling its acquisition process to get new tech faster, officials said Monday. A new framework introduces a vendor-vetting system, streamlines IT authorization, and "provides clear pathways for CIA to leverage its unique authorities to acquire essential capabilities, rapidly onboard breakthrough technology prototypes, and modernize its core systems to meet urgent mission needs,” according to a Feb. 9 statement.The effort is led by Efstathia Fragogiannis, an alum of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency who joined the agency as its procurement chief in November, according to a CIA official who spoke with Nextgov/FCW ahead of release.The official said the framework is a response to the government’s slower procurement timelines, which can create obstacles for innovative companies and slow the agency’s access to new technology, the CIA official said.In recent months, the CIA has underscored its key role in U.S.
national security, from rolling out Mandarin-language recruitment videos that encourage Chinese officials to secretly share information with U.S. intelligence to carrying out covert operations in Venezuela.During his January 2025 confirmation hearing, CIA Director John Ratcliffe stressed the need for the spy agency to accelerate and modernize how it procures technology. For years, the CIA has leaned on the private sector to aid in its secret missions, relying on contractors, commercial data and private-sector technology to fill gaps in intelligence collection and operational reach