2.1 Overview of Possible Threats

This primer addresses several types of terrorist threats, which are listed below.

Explosive Threats:

• Vehicle weapon
• Hand-delivered weapon Airborne Chemical, Biological, and Radiological Threats:
• Large-scale, external, air-borne release
• External release targeting building
• Internal release

Although it is possible that the dominant threat mode may change in the future, bombings have historically been a favorite tactic of terrorists. Ingredients for homemade bombs are easily obtained on the open market, as are the techniques for making bombs. Bombings are easy and quick to execute. Finally, the dramatic component of explosions in terms of the sheer destruction they cause creates a media sensation that is highly effective in transmitting the terrorist’s message to the public.