Publication

This study examines efforts to convert a former biological weapons (BW) facility in Stepnogorsk, Kazakhstan, which served as the USSR's largest mobilization facility dedicated to the production and weaponization of anthrax bacteria. The authors argue that, contrary to popular belief, the conversion of former Soviet BW facilities is a more difficult process than converting other Soviet defense facilities. The paper ends with specific recommendations and strategies for restarting conversion efforts at Stepnogorsk.