September 24, 2001: Nuclear, Biological, & Chemical Warfare - Craig O. Thompson

Craig O. Thompson discusses nuclear, biological, and chemical warfare threats in the post-September 11th environment. Thompson examines the vulnerability of American cities to WMD attacks and the challenges of detecting such weapons. The conversation explores the effects of different NBC weapons from nerve agents to bioweapons to radiological dispersal devices. Thompson discusses the preparedness of emergency response systems and the public health infrastructure for mass casualty events. The discussion addresses the availability of NBC weapons to terrorist organizations and rogue states. Thompson examines detection technologies and defensive measures to mitigate NBC attack consequences. The broadcast explores the particular threats posed by biological weapons including anthrax, smallpox, and engineered pathogens. Thompson discusses the psychology of NBC terrorism and the goal of creating mass panic. The conversation addresses what individuals can do to prepare for potential NBC attacks. Thompson examines the likelihood of terrorists deploying WMDs versus conventional explosives and the strategic calculations involved.