In stock, the disrupt intel project subtracts 10,000,000 points from the project, making it virtually impossible to research unless you're pulling in research points in the hundred thousands. So not all projects are weak...
It is difficult however to get projects through a player with moderate to good intel defense. The next version of the Balance Mod will feature a leaky intel system, that will be percentage based. So for example, even against a superior opponent with lots of intel defense, you may be able to get your project through.