Short Analysis of the Beginning and Use of Biological Means
Short Analysis of the Beginning and Use of Biological Means

Author(s): Gabriela Sarbu, Vasile Bogdan
Subject(s): Security and defense, Military policy
Published by: Centrul tehnic-editorial al armatei
Keywords: biological agents; vulnerabilities; nuclear weapons; chemical weapons; decontamination; anthrax
Summary/Abstract: Since immemorial time, armed confrontations made use of elements with biological potential for damage, which were already present in nature. The naturally occurring high-risk diseases were skilfully used to bring decisive operational advantages, thus tilting the victory to those who intelligently used the already existing possibilities in the environment. Gradually, with the development of technology and the impact of scientific research, biological factors of high impact on the living force were identified, developed and used in the operational space. The triggers of biological attacks are able to quickly cause serious illness and death of contaminated persons, as well as the decommissioning of targets and land. The action mode is generated by the ability to spread rapidly, achieved by dissemination in air, water or on the ground or by personal contact between individuals. Diseases that can be triggered by using them at critical moments or in carefully selected spaces allow reaching the specific objectives of the aggressor entity. During a turbulent 20th century, deeply involved in a fierce competition for world domination, the great powers noticed the major destructive potential as well as the surprising operational innovations offered by the biological weapon. As a result, they switched to discreet and careful research, followed by testing of the advantages that can be obtained in armed conflicts, through the offensive use of the new weapon into the belligerent area. If, during the First World War, the significant concerns belonged to Germany and Great Britain, during the Second World War, the case of Japan must be given priority.

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