Chemical and Biological Defense Program

The Chemical and Biological Defense Program (CBDP) is designed to enhance the Department of Defense's ability to address chemical and biological threats. It emphasizes research, development, testing, and evaluation to support the sustainment and modernization of laboratory infrastructure and test capabilities. This initiative is essential for maintaining operational readiness and ensuring the safety of personnel involved in defense activities. The program also focuses on integrating advanced technologies to develop countermeasures that can be effectively transitioned to military use.

The Laboratory Support component of the CBDP is dedicated to upgrading Department of Defense laboratory infrastructure. This involves ensuring that operations are conducted safely and effectively, which is vital for countering an expanding threat landscape. The U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center plays a significant role by exploring integrated early warning systems and layered defense approaches. Additionally, the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command supports laboratory operations at critical facilities, focusing on regulatory compliance and security.

Management Support within the CBDP provides oversight for both medical and non-medical programs related to chemical and biological defense. This includes initiatives such as ensuring biosafety across DoD laboratories handling high-risk agents. The program also supports biodefense logistics through a common operating picture framework, enhancing situational awareness of biodefense readiness. Furthermore, it facilitates data management systems that centralize information for decision-making purposes.

The Major Range and Test Facility Base component previously supported testing capabilities at certain facilities but has since been realigned to focus on other priorities within the CBDP framework. This shift underscores a strategic reallocation of resources to optimize testing infrastructure while maintaining compliance with legislative mandates. These efforts collectively aim to bolster the DoD's preparedness against chemical and biological threats through comprehensive research, development, testing, evaluation, and management support activities.