The 488th Intelligence Squadron (488 IS), RAF Mildenhall, England, is an operational component of the Air Intelligence Agency (AIA) executing information operations that shape the national security environment and the battle space. Serves as a combat force multiplier by providing vital information to theater, tactical, and national decision makers. Provides critical support to military operations and national decision makers wherever and whenever required.

The 488th is the United Kingdom's focal point for all C2 project actions in support of Third Air Force, and the 352nd Special Operations Group by assisting in protecting mission planning through target analysis. The 488 IS Commander (488 IS/CC) is administratively subordinate to AIA through the 26th Intelligence Group (26 IG) and the 67th Intelligence Wing (67 IW), and is operationally subordinate to Air Combat Command (ACC) through the 55th Reconnaissance Wing (55 RW) for RC-135 operations. The 488 IS is operationally subordinate to Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) through the 352d Special Operations Group (352 SOG) when supporting special operating functions. The Commander exercises command and control over 488 IS personnel and resources dispersed among the squadron's operating locations (OL), detachments, and temporary duty locations in the United States European Command (USEUCOM), and United States Central Command (USCENTCOM) areas of responsibility.

The 488 IS conducts RC-135/RIVET JOINT airborne reconnaissance missions across the USEUCOM and USCENTCOM areas of responsibility, and provides dedicated personnel to conduct worldwide SILENT SHIELD operations in support of AFSOC. The Squadron provides personnel to support airborne reconnaissance efforts during contingency operations, and provides intelligence and communications computer systems security to tactical commanders, naval commanders, other airborne electronic combat assets and national agencies.