The Vector lab developed deadly pathogens,
including smallpox, anthrax, and Ebola...does it still?
During
the Cold War, the Soviet Union's Ministry of Defense established a secretive
laboratory known as Vector, located in Koltsovo, Siberia. The lab was created
for the purpose of developing biological weapons and was operational from the
1970s until the early 1990s. The Vector lab was one of the Soviet Union's major
biological warfare research facilities and played a significant role in the development
of biological weapons. It was equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed
by leading scientists in the field. The lab was reportedly involved in the
development of several deadly pathogens, including smallpox, anthrax, and
Ebola.
However, despite the transition of the
Vector laboratory to civilian use, some experts have expressed concerns that
the lab may still be conducting research into biological weapons. The concerns
stem from the lack of transparency surrounding the lab's activities and the
possibility that former Soviet-era scientists with experience in biological
warfare may still be involved in its work.
In fact, a ‘fictional’ spy thriller, 'THE SHADOW WAR',
uncovers a Russian plot to unleash a biological weapons attack inside the U.S.,
further fueling the suspicions about Vector and the Russian government's
intentions.
Beyond the spy thriller ‘fiction’, some
real-life critics point out that Vector's research into dangerous pathogens,
such as Ebola and Marburg viruses, could potentially be used for bioterrorism
purposes. Additionally, the lab's location in a remote area of Siberia raises
questions about its security and the potential risks of accidents or breaches.
Despite Vector denying any involvement in biological
weapons research and insisting that its work is focused on public health, the
concerns about its activities continue to linger. It is important for the
international community to remain vigilant and monitor Vector and other
research facilities to ensure that they are not engaged in the development of
biological weapons.
The potential consequences of such activities are too grave to ignore, and it is essential that U.S. intelligence works with its fellow Western spy agencies to prevent the use of these deadly weapons. The legacy of Vector and the Soviet Union's biological warfare program serves as a reminder of the dangers of biological weapons and the importance of international cooperation and transparency in preventing their use.
Robert
Morton is a member of the Association of Former Intelligence Officers (AFIO)
and enjoys writing about the U.S. Intelligence Community.He authors the Corey Pearson- CIA Spymaster
series. Check out his latest spy thrillers: MISSION
OF VENGEANCE.
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