Khaberni - Microbial strains in the context of biological warfare are considered one of the most dangerous applications of biotechnology with a military nature, as they involve the use of microorganisms (such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi) or modified strains of them as a weapon to cause widespread human, economic, or environmental damage.
Historically, some countries and entities have sought to develop microbial strains with specific characteristics, such as increased infectivity, resistance to treatments and disinfectants, or potential for rapid spread. This field raises significant ethical and security issues, given the possibility of these agents transforming into an uncontrolled global threat.
Conversely, international efforts—such as conventions on the prohibition of biological weapons—play a pivotal role in monitoring and preventing the development or use of such strains. Advances in genetics and biosecurity have made it essential to enhance early detection systems, rapid response, and research oversight with dual-use potential.
Examples of Biological Warfare Microbes -
There are several microbial strains that have been used, developed, or studied for military purposes due to their high capacity to cause rapid and severe diseases, and we will show some historical and known examples as follows:
Anthrax Bacteria: (Bacillus anthracis)1-
Considered one of the most frequently used pathogens in biological warfare programs, it forms spores that are very resistant to heat and environmental conditions, making it suitable for airdrops or through mailings (as happened in the "anthrax letters" incidents in the United States in 2001). It causes anthrax, which can be lethal if not treated quickly.
Plague Bacteria: (Yersinia pestis)2-
Yersinia pestis, the causative agent of bubonic and pneumonic plague, has been historically used, with its use by Japan in World War II (Unit 731), where it was spread through insects (fleas) and
is characterized by rapid transmission and the potential to cause devastating epidemics.
Tularemia Bacteria: (Francisella tularensis)3-
This highly infectious bacterium requires only a very small amount to cause disease and causes tularemia, affecting the respiratory and lymphatic systems. It has been studied in several military programs as a potential weapon due to ease of aerial dispersion and treatment difficulty in certain cases.
Brucellosis Bacteria: (Brucella spp)4-
Causes brucellosis or Malta fever, which is debilitating but rarely lethal. It has been used for purposes of incapacitating troops or communities without mass killing.
- Highly Infectious Viruses (such as smallpox and Ebola viruses):5
Smallpox Virus: (Variola major)A-
This virus was included in biological warfare programs during the Cold War, given its high spread rate and high mortality rate.
Ebola Virus: (Ebola virus)B-
Concerns about the Ebola virus have been raised due to its lethal nature and rapid spread, although it is less stable in the external environment.
Botulinum Toxin: (Clostridium botulinum Exotoxin)6-
Clostridium botulinum bacteria produce a deadly neurotoxin that is among the most potent toxins known, where
its research has been used in the development of toxin-based biological weapons rather than direct infection.
Why are certain microorganisms considered suitable as biological weapons?? -
Some microbial strains are considered biological weapons because they possess the following common characteristics:
1- Infectivity / transmissibility
The organisms that require small doses to cause infection or that can be easily transmitted among humans (through droplets, air, or vectors) can cause rapid and multiple infections.
2- Virulence
When the microbe is highly virulent and deadly, it has higher disease or death rates, causing a larger health and social impact.
3- Long or varied incubation period
When the microbe has long or variable incubation periods, it allows the disease to spread before being detected, increasing the number of infected individuals before control measures can be taken.
4- Environmental stability & resilience
Microbes that remain alive or active for long periods in the air, water, soil, or on surfaces are easier to deploy and cause greater concern.
5- Resistance & lack of countermeasures
If there are no effective vaccines or known treatments, this increases the microbe's impact and makes the response more difficult.
6- Accessibility
If microorganisms are naturally present in the environment or can be easily isolated, they may be exploited by actors with malicious intent.
7- Vector-borne potential
Some microbes can be spread by insects or __(missing text)__
