US Policy on Chemical and Biological Warfare and Agents

US Policy on Chemical and Biological Warfare and Agents

Report to the National Security Council by the Interdepartmental Political-Military Group (IPMG) in response to National Security Study Memorandum (NSSM) 59. Examines current US and international policies on CBW and deliberates future policies with a focus on arms control. A major focus is the employment of lethal vs. non-lethal CBW.

1969

The US is stockpiling BW agents that could be deployed if the need arises, specifically against a Soviet threat. BW seem to be valued for its clandestine delivery, whereas CW is intended for demoralization and use where precision artillery is difficult. However, the US is receiving negative pushback for its deployment of CW in wartime and is facing int'l pressure to sign the Geneva protocol of 1925 and stop CBW research. Must weigh defense and arms control: non-lethal pathogens may be a compromise.