Operation Dew

Operation Dew was a series of biological warfare tests conducted by the United States Army during the early 1950s. These tests were part of a larger program to understand the dispersal patterns and potential impacts of biological agents in various environments. The operation was conducted off the coast of South Carolina and Georgia, primarily focusing on the use of aerosolized agents.

Background

During the Cold War, the threat of biological warfare was a significant concern for military strategists. The United States, along with other nations, engaged in research to develop both offensive and defensive capabilities in this domain. Operation Dew was one of several tests aimed at understanding how biological agents could be effectively dispersed and what their potential impact might be on both military and civilian populations.

Objectives

The primary objectives of Operation Dew were:

• To study the dispersal patterns of biological agents when released in aerosol form over water.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of different dissemination methods.
• To gather data on the potential impact of these agents on human populations and the environment.

Methodology

Operation Dew involved the release of non-pathogenic agents, such as Serratia marcescens and Bacillus globigii, which were used as simulants for more dangerous pathogens. These agents were chosen because they were believed to be harmless to humans and could be easily tracked due to their distinct characteristics.

The tests were conducted using aircraft to disperse the agents over the ocean. Monitoring equipment was set up on ships and along the coastline to collect data on the spread and concentration of the agents.

Results

The results of Operation Dew provided valuable insights into the behavior of aerosolized biological agents. The data collected helped to improve models of agent dispersal and informed the development of both offensive and defensive biological warfare strategies.

Ethical and Legal Considerations

Operation Dew, like many other tests conducted during this period, raised significant ethical and legal questions. The use of biological agents, even in a controlled environment, posed potential risks to human health and the environment. The lack of informed consent from potentially affected populations was a major concern, leading to increased scrutiny and eventual changes in policy regarding human experimentation.

Legacy

The legacy of Operation Dew is complex. While it contributed to scientific understanding and military preparedness, it also highlighted the ethical challenges associated with biological warfare research. The operation is often cited in discussions about the need for transparency and ethical oversight in military research programs.

Also see

• Biological warfare
• Cold War military history
• Operation Sea-Spray
• Project SHAD