Microbium at the Prague Forum: Rapid Microbiological Detection and Verification of Disinfection Effectiveness

Biotechnology is becoming an increasingly important strategic capability in defence and security. In October, Microbium presented its work on rapid microbiological water monitoring and the validation of disinfection technologies at an international forum in Prague.

As biological threats evolve, rapid detection of microbial contamination, verification of decontamination effectiveness and access to safe water are becoming increasingly important. NATO is responding to these challenges by strengthening its Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) defence capabilities and accelerating the adoption of emerging technologies.

Biotechnology as a Strategic Priority

NATO’s Biotechnology and Human Enhancement Technologies Strategy recognises the potential of advanced biosensors, synthetic biology and biomanufacturing to strengthen defence capabilities.

Portable analytical systems and AI-enabled biosensors offer new opportunities for faster detection of biological threats and improved situational awareness in the field. Alongside the development of new disinfection technologies, independent verification of their effectiveness under realistic operating conditions is essential.

Connecting innovators, researchers and military end-users plays an important role in this effort. NATO supports this collaboration through initiatives such as NATO DIANA and the Joint CBRN Defence Centre of Excellence.

From Strategy to Field Application

In October, we presented Microbium’s work at the CBRN Defence Technology & Innovation Forum in Prague, organised by the Joint CBRN Defence Centre of Excellence in cooperation with NATO DIANA.

Our presentation focused on two areas:

• Rapid on-site microbiological water monitoring, enabling faster assessment of microbiological water quality in field conditions.
• Validation of disinfection technologies, providing scientific evidence of effectiveness to support the development and evaluation of reliable decontamination solutions.

Both areas have important dual-use applications, from protecting civilian critical infrastructure and ensuring a safe water supply to supporting military operations and emergency response.

At Microbium, we combine microbiological expertise, technology development and effectiveness verification to support decision-making in demanding environments.