Chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) technologies have evolved significantly during the past century. They are commonly characterised as posing a “low probability, high impact” threat to society either through their accidental or deliberate release (European Commission, n.d.).
This paper will examine the EU’s preparedness in terms of responding to CBRN-threats. The research question that will be addressed in the paper is: To what extent the European Union is capable of defending itself against external CBRN threats? To effectively evaluate the EU’s defence capabilities concerning CBRN, the issue will be approached comprehensively starting with an examination of the historical and institutional background of the CBRN-sphere. Secondly, a comprehensive CBRN defence strategy includes both civilian and military preparedness. These two major components will be outlined, discussed, and analysed in their respective chapters. Finally, the future considerations of CBRN defence are examined in the last section.