Weaponization of BW Agents

File: 961031_950825_0128pgv_90d.txt
Page: 90d
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Weaponization of BW Agents

Filename:0128pgv.90d

7 SEP 90  [   (b)(2)   ]

SUBJECT:   Weaponization of BW Agents

1.         To date, the only BW agents that Iraq is believed to
have produced and weaponized are botulinum toxin, which is 
produced" by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum and is one of the 
most potent poisons -known, and anthrax.  The most likely delivery 
systems are aerial bombs (250 kg), artillery (152 mm) and rockets 
(122 mm).  Other reports indicate that BW-capable clyster bombs 
and SCUDs are under development.

2.        No figures are available for the size of Iraq's BW
stockpile.  However, equipment orders give some indication of 
their
capability.  Negotiations between Iraq and  [   (b)(1) sec 
1.3(a)(5)   ] for a 5000 liter fermentor and a centrifuge with a 
capacity of 2000 to 4000 liters per hour were reported in 
September 1989.  The centrifuge was required to be able to 
withstand steam sterilization.  Delivery of the equipment was 
expected to occur within a few weeks of the date of the report.  
This installation was assessed to enable the manufacture of 
biological agents from seed cultures to complete biological 
warfare powders.  Because of the large fluid to organism ratio in 
a fermentor, a 5000 liter fermentor would probably produce 50 kg 
or less of product per run.  BW agents require refrigeration to 
maximize the potency and shelf life.

3.       Anthrax spores can survive indefinitely outdoors.
Botulism toxin degrades rapidly with heat and light.  Neither
organism is detected by U.S. detectors.  The mask worn by U.S. 
troops will protect against both anthrax and botulism toxin.

[   (b)(6)   ]