英媒：数字时代，英国军情六处艰难转型

Core Viewpoint - The next head of MI6 faces significant challenges in adapting to the digital age, where traditional espionage methods are becoming increasingly difficult and costly, while the demand for intelligence is growing [1][2]. Group 1: Intelligence Operations - MI6 traditionally focuses on human intelligence (HUMINT) by recruiting agents for espionage activities aimed at national security, economic welfare, and combating serious crime [2]. - The new MI6 chief, Bryce Metreveli, must guide the agency's direction, prioritizing intelligence on foreign technologies such as chips, AI models, and data centers, amidst insufficient funding and personnel [2][3]. - The issue of counter-espionage is becoming more prominent, with foreign entities potentially capturing MI6 agents, necessitating a return to Cold War operational modes [3]. Group 2: Technological Challenges - The digital transformation of human intelligence services is a focal point for MI6, as managing agents' digital identities has become increasingly complex due to big data [4]. - The cost of secret operations has risen exponentially since Metreveli joined in 1999, with a higher proportion of intelligence materials now coming from signal intelligence (SIGINT) rather than HUMINT [4]. - The outdated IT systems of MI6 pose a risk, as external parties can access data more quickly than the agency can, highlighting the need for modernization [4]. Group 3: Collaboration and Training - The relationship between MI6 and its sister agencies is evolving, with MI6 providing decryption materials to the Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ), which in turn helps identify potential foreign spies [4]. - The agency's strength lies in its ability to build networks and train agents, with leadership typically coming from within rather than external figures [5][6].