Aspects of a National Defense Against Chemical and Biological Terrorism

The use of chemical and biological agents as tools for terrorist use has resulted in expanded preparedness and response programs in the U.S. and around the world. In the United States, agencies of the Federal Government have organized to better respond to threats that include terrorist use of weapons of mass destruction. This chapter will discuss several specific aspects of the U.S. program to defend against chemical and biological attacks. Specifically, programs addressing the needs for preparedness, situational awareness, and detection/identification.