CHANTILLY, Va. –
For the 17th year in a row, the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) has earned an unmodified opinion—commonly known as a clean audit—on its fiscal year 2025 financial statements. This distinction, awarded by independent auditors, underscores the NRO’s continued commitment to sound financial management and transparency.
An unmodified audit opinion signifies that NRO’s financial statements fairly and accurately represent its financial position and operational results, in full compliance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
"NRO's 17th consecutive clean audit reflects the fiscal accountability and stewardship that has defined the NRO for over six decades," said Dr. Chris Scolese, director of the NRO. "A spirit of innovation, streamlined acquisition processes, and strengthened commercial partnerships have allowed us to incorporate new capabilities faster while maximizing public resources. This balance of operational excellence and fiscal responsibility ensures we maintain the technological edge necessary for our nation’s security while delivering exceptional value to the American people."
The NRO’s continued record of clean audits underscores its effective stewardship of public funds and adherence to sound financial management principles. This achievement provides assurance to stakeholders, including mission partners and Congressional oversight bodies, that the NRO remains firmly committed to responsible fiscal practices in support of its vital national security mission.
"Our financial strength supports operational agility," said Heidi Smith, chief financial officer and director of NRO’s Business and Plans Operations Directorate. "Our 17th clean audit and modernized acquisition framework help us integrate innovative technologies while ensuring strong financial controls and responsible use of the public resources entrusted to us."
This clean audit reaffirms the NRO’s sound financial foundation, positioning the agency to continue fulfilling its mission with accountability and excellence.
The NRO Office of the Inspector General contracted with the independent public accounting firm Kearney & Company to conduct the annual audit of financial statements. Kearney evaluated the reliability of financial data supporting financial statements, the accuracy of the statements, and the accuracy of footnote disclosures in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S., as well as guidance issued by the Federal Accounting Standards Advisory Board and the Office of Management and Budget.
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Ever since its inception at the dawn of the space age more than 60 years ago, the NRO has brought the farthest reaches of the planet into our grasp — to see it, hear it, and sense it. Today, the NRO is building on that legacy of innovation, harnessing the limitless potential of space to make our nation even safer and stronger. Learn more at NRO.gov.