The Directorate for Defence Intelligence is the specialized structure for gathering, processing, checking, storing and using intelligence and data related to internal and external military and non military risks and threats with possible consequences for national defence security. This structure coordinates the implementation of counter-intelligence measures and the cooperation with government and intelligence services/structures as well as with those in member states of alliances, coalitions and international organizations Romania is part of. It also ensures the security of the national, NATO and EU classified, defence-related information.

The staff of the Directorate for Defence Intelligence work either overtly or undercover, as required by the national defence security. In order to collect intelligence in the theaters of operations or to fight against terror, the Directorate for Defence Intelligence can use its subordinate combat units.

Head of the Directorate for Defence Intelligence is a general director, an active duty officer. The general director is appointed by the Minister of National Defence upon approval by the Supreme Council of National Defence. The general director position is equivalent to that of a State Secretary.

Some of the specific types of equipment and goods are procured, according to law, by specialized structures in the directorate, from internal and external sources.