Joint Publication Operations in Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Environments

The threatened or actual employment of chemical,biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) material, including toxic industrial materials (TIMs), can seriously challenge US military operations. The deadly, destructive, and disruptive effects of these weapons and materials merit continuous consideration by the joint force commander (JFC) and supporting commanders.The worldwide availability of advanced military andcommercial technologies and information (including dual use and emerging nontraditional threats), combined with commonly available transportation and delivery means, may allow adversaries opportunities to acquire, develop,and employ CBRN weapons without regard for national or regional boundaries. The Department of Defense (DOD) has expanded CBRN defense capabilities to address the complexities of the strategic context in which US forces may perform missions in CBRN environments.