KGB cigarette pack spy camera still works (sort of)

Popular Science

by Andrew Paul

February 23, 2026

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KGB cigarette pack spy camera still works (sort of)

A Norwegian camera historian recently tested a Soviet-era KGB cigarette pack spy camera, showcasing its unique design and functionality. The device, known as the Kiev Vega 2, was disguised as an ordinary cigarette box and used 16mm film to capture covert photographs during the Cold War. Although it lacked features like a viewfinder to avoid attention, the historian found that using the camera in public proved challenging due to its limited focusing mechanism, resulting in blurry images on half of his attempts. Despite these drawbacks, the camera’s ingenuity and historical significance make it a fascinating relic of espionage technology. The Vega 2 was modeled after Western designs but adapted for Soviet spies by fitting into a cigarette box. It included features like adjustable shutter speeds and an aperture dial, allowing operators to capture images discreetly. The design incorporated metallic tape to mimic the box’s foil lining, making it appear even more ordinary. A small window on the side provided a view for taking photos while maintaining space for two fake cigarettes. Spy cameras have long been essential tools in intelligence gathering, as they allow operatives to collect information without raising suspicion. While modern espionage leans heavily on technology, analog devices like the Vega 2 highlight the creativity and resourcefulness required during the Cold War. Similar examples include the Minox-B subminiature camera and the CIA’s fountain pen camera, which underscores the importance of discreet photography in intelligence operations. The historian’s experiment also demonstrated both the strengths and limitations of such devices. While the concept was innovative, practical use revealed significant challenges, such as difficulty focusing and framing shots. Nevertheless, the ability to produce usable images shows that Soviet spies could gather actionable intelligence with this device, blending engineering ingenuity with covert operational needs. This story not only sheds light on the history of espionage but also underscores the enduring appeal of spy gadgets in modern culture. The

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Originally published on Popular Science on 2/23/2026