Technical intelligence
TECHINT is the collection and analysis of information about weapons and equipment used by the armed forces of foreign nations. Technical intelligence includes collection of materiel and related manuals; examination and testing of weapons and equipment; and publication of finished intelligence. Technical intelligence is intended primarily to allow the armed forces to avoid technological surprise. Knowledge of the characteristics and capabilities of enemy weapons allows nations to develop effective countermeasures for them. Occasionally, armed forces adopt technology developed by foreign nations. The Jerry or Blitz can of World War II is an example of foreign technology adopted by the US Army.
Technical intelligence should not be confused with intelligence obtained "by technical means." That is a term of art used in discussion of disarmament to mean information gathered by various sorts of sensors in space, in vehicles, or in fixed locations.