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Biodefense is Force Protection

August 11, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Biodefense should be treated as military force protection.
Current approach is too reactive, not proactive.
Broad-spectrum antiviral countermeasures are needed.
Government and industry must collaborate on evaluation and approval.

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Strategic Implications

This shift in approach may indicate a growing recognition of biological threats as a critical component of national security, which could lead to increased investment in biodefense technologies and more proactive collaboration between government and industry, potentially strengthening the US military's readiness and response capabilities.

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What Happened

Industry Leader Calls for Proactive Approach to Biological Threats

The US military’s approach to biodefense is too focused on public health and not enough on force protection, according to Thomas K. Equels, CEO of AIM ImmunoTech. Equels, a former Army helicopter gunship pilot, argues that biodefense should be treated as a critical component of military readiness, with a focus on proactive measures such as broad-spectrum antiviral countermeasures. He cites the example of the Ebola virus and the need for government and industry to collaborate on evaluation and approval of potential treatments. This article was first reported by Breaking Defense.

Source | Originally Published: August 11, 2026

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