Defense Biotechnology Strategy Act

The Defense Biotechnology Strategy Act mandates the Secretary of Defense to formulate a comprehensive strategy concerning the national security implications of emerging biotechnologies within one year of enactment. This strategy, developed in coordination with key Under Secretaries, must be submitted to the House and Senate Armed Services Committees. Its core purpose is to define the future role of biotechnology in defense and improve industry, interagency, and international relationships in this critical sector. Key elements of the required strategy include plans for expanding commercial biomanufacturing facilities and updating military specifications to integrate biotechnology-based products. It also necessitates incorporating military-relevant biotechnology applications into wargaming exercises and establishing a biotechnology regulation science and technology program . Furthermore, the strategy must detail how the Department of Defense will support NATO member countries in aggregating demand and pooling purchasing power for biotechnology products, fostering international research collaboration .