Russia is developing a series of low-yield nuclear weapons that could be used for what are effectively non-nuclear strikes. Colonel-General Vladimir Yakovlev, head of the Strategic Rocket Forces, has warned that Russia would consider the first use of nuclear weapons not just against NATO or China, but against "regional threats". --Stephen V Cole

Iraqi brokers are buying medical and chemical equipment suitable for use in producing biological warfare agents and shipping it home through third-countries to avoid UN bans on certain sales to Iraq. Included are stainless steel fittings, special air filters, and centrifuges used in the milk industry to remove germs from milk. Many items are purchased from the South African branches of European pharmaceutical companies.--Stephen V Cole