VX: DEADLY CHEMICAL NERVE AGENT
Purpose: To disable enemy troops.
How used: Can be used to deter troops or contaminate an area for weeks before it breaks down.
How it works: Airborne exposure to a few drops of this oily liquid can kill in minutes by affecting the nervous system. Victims first get flu-like symptoms affecting respiration and vision. Then they lose control of their muscles and have convulsions. Death occurs when major organs fail.
Protection: Any section of exposed skin can make a person vulnerable, so protective gear should include full body non-permeable suits and gas masks. If treated quickly some victims can survive exposure to this deadly chemical.
Produced: Muthanna plant in Iraq.
Delivered: by ballistic missiles, aerial bombs, artillery shells, short-range rockets, mines and small land-based bombs; sprayed from aircraft, trucks and tanks.