The text covers chemical, biological, and radiological attacks and begins with a review of policy and legal issues pertaining to special weapons and pertinent counter-terrorist response considerations. The text continues with an assessment of the various types of special weapons of mass destruction and the terrorist's ability to make and use them. A historical review of significant incidents is presented for major weapon sub-categories. Consideration is paid to limitations of police response operations in the United States. Also examined are actions that may be needed if the terrorist threat from special weapons continues to develop in the United States. Supplemental information on police planning considerations and technology as well as national response points of contact are provided in appendixes. References, endnotes, and figures