Biodefense in the Pandemic Era

The current scope and role of the Research and Development Chemical and Biological Defense Department (RD-CB) within the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is to develop materiel, medical products and capabilities that enable the Warfighter to remain lethal in areas contested with chemical and biological (CB) weapons of mass destruction (WMD). The focus of the RD-CB is on CB-WMDs delivered by aerosol, based on the documented intent of state-sponsored CB-WMD programs, as well as recent real-world experiences in the Middle East. The Sudden Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV2) pandemic and the resulting national human and economic toll demonstrate a clear and present vulnerability of the US to contagious infectious diseases. Indeed, another pandemic with a similar magnitude and impact might create an enduring economic burden that would severely hinder the ability of the US and its allie to meet global strategic goals.