MI5 tackling more state threats than during Cold War, warns intelligence chief

MI5 is putting more resources into countering threats from foreign states than it did during the Cold War, chief Sir Ken McCallum said in his annual speech in London.

McCallum described Russia as the leading state threat. He said it was conducting hybrid operations while avoiding actions that could prompt a united Nato response, and that MI5’s removal of Russian spies had pushed Moscow towards using paid intermediaries for attempted attacks.

He also warned that Iran was widening its campaign in Britain. He said Jewish communities had been among the targets, along with more heavily protected locations such as military sites, and promised a firm response to those responsible.

McCallum said right-wing terrorism remained a concern and that artificial intelligence was changing the security landscape. MI5 had identified terrorists using AI to improve reconnaissance and attack planning, including through drones.

He said the full danger from AI had not yet emerged, but the technology could raise the risks associated with existing or new biological weapons.