New NRO Mandate Raises Secrecy Flag http://www.techweb.com/wire/story/TWB20001128S0003 A commission created to examine the future of the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) wants that agency to set up a highly classified office to spearhead advanced research. The commission also concluded that the NRO -- arguably the largest intelligence agency in the United States in budget terms -- should outsource more of its satellite intelligence from commercial companies. The National Commission for the Review of the NRO recommended that an Office of Space Reconnaissance be established that would be granted top-secret procurement status, with oversight by only the highest levels of government. The plan is drawing criticism from some groups, who warn that increasing the secretive nature, scope, and budget of the NRO without instituting new accountability measures is risky. ............