The 20th CBRNE Command is the U.S. Army’s premier organization for confronting the world’s most dangerous threats—chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive hazards. Activated in 2004, the command consolidates specialized capabilities that were once spread across multiple units, giving the Army a single headquarters responsible for CBRNE preparedness, response, and technical expertise. Headquartered at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, the 20th CBRNE Command oversees explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) battalions, chemical and biological defense units, nuclear disablement teams, and specialized analytical and technical support elements. Its mission blends cutting-edge science with expeditionary operations, ensuring the Army can identify, mitigate, and neutralize hazardous threats both at home and abroad.
In addition to supporting overseas contingency operations, the 20th CBRNE Command plays a central role in domestic homeland defense, partnering with federal and state agencies to respond to emergencies involving hazardous materials, weapons of mass destruction, and explosive incidents. Its soldiers and civilians frequently train alongside interagency partners, refining techniques for site exploitation, decontamination, counter-WMD operations, and crisis response. Whether deployed with combat forces or supporting civil authorities after a disaster, the 20th CBRNE Command provides the Army with unmatched technical expertise and the ability to rapidly confront threats that demand precise, specialized capabilities.