Toxic Warfare
Abstract
Recent events suggest that "toxic warfare" or the use of inexpensive chemicals and industrial waste in weaponry is on the rise. Accordingly, this report offers an initial analysis of the extent of the problem by bringing together what is currently known about toxic weapon use. Both state and nonstate actors (including insurgents and terrorists) are using toxic weapons, which provide an attractive asymmetrical option because they are inexpensive, are available in large quantities, are found in urban areas, and, perhaps most significantly, are not entirely secure from theft or diversion. The substances used to make these weapons have thus far been relegated to low-priority status under international law regulating the use of chemical weapons thereby making it easier for those interested in their use to gain access to them. This report offers historical examples, most drawn from the past decade, to illustrate where and how such weapons have been used. It also examines U.S. operations during toxic warfare and discusses current thinking in the United States about toxic weapons with respect to both military operations and homeland security.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA409006
Entities
People
- Theodore Karasik
Organizations
- RAND Corporation