About this Unit
Naval Security Group Activity (NSGA) Kamiseya, Japan, was established in the early 1950s as a key U.S. Navy signals intelligence (SIGINT) facility during the Cold War. Located near Yokosuka, it played a vital role in intercepting and analyzing communications from the Soviet Union, China, and regional actors in the Western Pacific. The unit provided crucial intelligence support to U.S. and allied naval operations, particularly during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. NSGA Kamiseya operated until its closure in 1995, after which its missions were consolidated with other intelligence activities in the region.
Historical Facts
• Origins in WWII: NSGA Kamiseya (Naval Security Group Activity, Kamiseya) originated as a U.S. Navy communications and intelligence site established shortly after World War II, leveraging Japan’s strategic location during the early Cold War.
• Role in Signals Intelligence: The base was a key player in the United States' signals intelligence (SIGINT) operations, intercepting and analyzing communications from the Soviet Union, China, and other regional actors during the Cold War.
• Kamiseya Fire of 1965: On June 20, 1965, a massive fire broke out at the facility, resulting in the deaths of 12 sailors and injuries to many others. The incident led to improved safety protocols across Navy installations.
• U-2 Incident Involvement: NSGA Kamiseya played a significant role in monitoring and relaying intelligence during the 1960 U-2 incident, when an American spy plane was shot down over the Soviet Union.
• Underground Operations: Much of Kamiseya’s work was highly classified, with underground bunkers and facilities used for cryptologic and intelligence-gathering activities.
• Support to Vietnam War: The unit provided critical intelligence support during the Vietnam War, helping to direct naval and air operations through real-time interception of enemy communications.
• Multinational Collaboration: NSGA Kamiseya frequently coordinated with Japanese and other allied intelligence agencies, fostering close cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.
• Deactivation and Transition: The facility was officially closed in 1995, with many of its missions and personnel transferred to other sites such as Yokosuka and Misawa, marking the end of an era for U.S. Navy cryptologic operations in Kamiseya.
• Community Relations: Despite its secretive nature, NSGA Kamiseya maintained strong ties with local Japanese communities, participating in cultural exchanges and disaster response efforts.
• Legacy and Commemoration: Former personnel and veterans' groups continue to honor the legacy of NSGA Kamiseya, particularly remembering the sacrifices made during incidents like the 1965 fire, and the unit's lasting impact on intelligence operations in the Pacific.
