Medical Countermeasure Autoinjector Summit Held to Promote Performer and Joint Force Alignment

FALLS CHURCH, Virginia  –   On January 26, the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense’s (JPEO-CBRND) Joint Project Manager for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Medical (JPM CBRN Medical) team hosted an autoinjector-focused summit, held at the Defense Health Agency Headquarters in Falls Church, Virginia.

With the ongoing foreign and domestic threat of the use of chemical agents, autoinjectors can provide rapid treatments to service members and first responders. This summit allowed stakeholders from across government and industry a chance to have frank and engaging discussions on how to maintain and strengthen Defense Department Autoinjector (AI) capabilities in support of the warfighter.

Sessions covered the field management of chemical warfare casualties, including triage, decontamination, and treatment. Participants also learned about the most effective way to use autoinjectors on the battlefield. Representatives of each branch of the Joint Force participated, bringing a comprehensive perspective on the unique needs and operating conditions of each Service to the event.

During the performer portion, participants heard directly from industry leaders working with the JPM CBRN Medical team. Overall, industry indicated that prioritization of funding helps “keep the lights on” at production operations and maximizes AI innovation potential. The vendors said they stood ready to meet the government’s demand signal, if given, and they would be open to ramping up production in support of the mission.

“A highlight of the day was hearing from the many performers in attendance,” COL Matthew G. Clark, Joint Project Manager for CBRN Medical, said. “Conducting open discussions and learning from our industry partners enables better mission outcomes, as we design, test, and field the next generation of treatment options.”

AIs used to treat potential and suspected opioid overdoses were also featured, many of which recently have been used to save police and civilian lives.

The JPEO-CBRND's mission to provide the best CBRN defense technology and equipment — at the right place, at the right time, and at the right cost — is possible only with participation from industry. The JPEO-CBRND welcomes vendors looking to partner with us to visit https://www.jpeocbrnd.osd.mil/Work-With-Us/ and utilize the Joint Enterprise Technology Tool (JETT) to connect directly to the JPEO-CBRND.