H.R. 5193: To direct the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to conduct a feasibility study on incorporating militarily-relevant applications of emerging biotechnology into wargaming exercises, and for other purposes.

This bill aims to direct the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to conduct a feasibility study regarding the integration of advanced biotechnology into military wargaming exercises. The study will assess how such innovations could be incorporated into the design of these exercises to enhance military strategies and operations. Here are the key components of the bill:

Feasibility Study

The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is required to review and evaluate how to modify existing wargaming exercises to incorporate relevant advancements in biotechnology. This includes analyzing the potential benefits of these technologies for military purposes.

Key Elements to Consider

When conducting the feasibility study, the Chairman will take into account several factors:

• Performance Enhancements: Biotechnology that can enhance cognitive and physical performance of military personnel.
• Strategic Chemical and Material Use: New materials and chemicals developed through biotechnology that could provide an advantage in combat.
• Adversaries' Use of Biotechnology: The study will also consider how enemy forces may utilize biotechnology that goes beyond conventional biological weapons.
• Other Relevant Applications: Any additional biotechnology applications deemed relevant by the Chairman will also be considered.

Consultation Process

In order to conduct this thorough review, the Chairman will consult with several stakeholders, which includes:

• The commanders of the various combatant commands.
• Other relevant experts and stakeholders, both within the Department of Defense and external entities, to gather insights on recent advancements in biotechnology.

Reporting Requirements

Once the feasibility study is complete, the Chairman must submit a report to the Committees on Armed Services in both the Senate and the House of Representatives within 180 days of the bill's enactment. This report will include:

• A detailed summary of any proposed changes to the wargaming exercises based on the study's findings.
• If necessary, a plan outlining how the design of these exercises can be kept up-to-date with future advancements in biotechnology.

Definition of Wargaming Exercise

For the purposes of the bill, a "wargaming exercise" refers to any military drill that is conducted to test or improve tactical capabilities, including specifically the Globally Integrated Wargames.

Relevant Companies

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