Drone Delivery of Bioweapons: Responsibilities for Force Readiness

Authors

James Giordano, Center for Disruptive Technology and Future Warfare, Institute for National Strategic Studies, National Defense University
Diane DiEuliis, Center for the Study of Weapons of Mass Destruction, Institute of National Strategic Studies, National Defense University

Files

Description

This Strategic Forum by Dr. James Giordano and Dr. Diane DiEuliis explores the convergence of drone technology and emerging biotechnologies. This includes synthetic biology, gene editing, and nanoscale biomaterials, and their implications for military readiness and national security. It examines how these dual-use technologies could enable novel delivery methods for biological agents, expanding the threat landscape and lowering technical barriers. The analysis emphasizes the need for proactive defense planning, enhanced detection and countermeasures, and integrated strategies to mitigate risks, ensuring force readiness in the face of evolving biological threats.

Document Type

Policy Brief

Topic(s)

Emerging Science and Technologies, Biological and Chemical Issues

Publication Date

7-2025

Publication

Strategic Forum

Publisher

National Defense University Press

City

Washington, D.C.

Keywords

drone-based bioweapon threats, convergence of drone and biological technology, AI in drone systems, emerging security threats, biological weapons norms, autonomous weapon systems, security preparedness and resilience

Recommended Citation

Giordano, James and DiEuliis, Diane, "Drone Delivery of Bioweapons: Responsibilities for Force Readiness" (2025). Strategic Forums. 139.
https://digitalcommons.ndu.edu/strategic-forums/139