Download

Download Full Text (97 KB)

Description

Strategic messaging plays a critical role in U.S. biodeterrence by shaping how potential adversaries perceive American preparedness, capabilities, and resolve. In this article, Dr. James Giordano discusses how advances in artificial intelligence, synthetic biology, and other emerging technologies are changing the nature of biological threats and their implications for national security and military operations.

Dr. Giordano argues that effective biodeterrence requires more than protective technologies and response capabilities. It also depends on credible communication that demonstrates U.S. preparedness, influences adversary decision-making, and reduces uncertainty. He emphasizes the importance of communicating both capabilities and limitations without compromising operational security, strengthening deterrence while reinforcing confidence in the U.S. military's ability to maintain operational effectiveness during biological incidents.

Document Type

Article

Topic(s)

Biological and Chemical Issues, Information Operations, Defense Policy

Publication Date

10-27-2026

Publisher

Institute for National Strategic Studies

City

Washington, DC

Keywords

Biodeterrence, Biodefense, Biological Threats, Strategic Messaging, Biological Warfare, Deterrence Strategy, U.S. National Security, Biological Defense Capabilities, Military Preparedness, Strategic Communication, Emerging Biological Technologies, Adversary Decision-Making, Biological Threat Assessment, Military Readiness, U.S. Defense Policy

Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6505-4729

Strategic Messaging as an Essential Element of U.S. Biodeterrence, Part One: Communicating Capability in an Era of Escalating Biological Threats

Share

COinS