Anthrax is still a high threat biological agent, with historical precedence of potential terrorist use. While lack of human-to-human transmission may contain attacks in pockets, attacks can be multiple, coordinated and/or covert, therefore successful containment is heavily dependent on rapid identification after the smallest (possible) number of early cases, immediate and accurate statistical assessment of its geographic extent based on case histories, and a rapidly targeted prophylaxis strategy that considers both antibiotics and vaccine. Persistence of spores could lead to continued post-event threat, lack of guarantee that total decontamination has been achieved, fear of repeat attacks, concerns and disruptions to normal life, and tremendous loss to the economy. These considerations were among those that underpinned the recent 'Anthrax Counter Measures 2013' international conference held at the think-tank Royal United Services Institute, London, on 4 February 2013. Peer-reviewed abstracts of fifteen oral papers and nineteen posters presented in this conference are published as proceedings in this issue of the Military Medical Science Letters journal (ISSN 0372-7025). This meeting brought together academic, government and third sector organisations to debate key issues in anthrax counter measures under four themes: 'What might happen? How will we know? How to respond? What does the future look like?'. Topics explored include injectional anthrax (the latest and fourth mode of infection), inhalational anthrax (which drives biodefence considerations like animal models, emergency preparedness, etc.), the role of US government agencies post-Amerithrax attacks (especially the Animal Rule and Project BioShield, and the first licensed product raxibacumab), current and emerging trends in detection and diagnostics, etc. Discussions took place on how to accelerate products from laboratory to field, how to make the most out of the currently licensed antibiotics and vaccines, and how to bridge the gap between science and frontline response to anthrax. More efforts are needed to quantify the overall burden of the Amerithrax attacks, including the impact on tourism and business showdowns or diversions. This will enable governments to demonstrate value for taxpayer money and identify gaps through initiatives such as the annual preparedness index, shelf-life extension programmes, etc. Continued fiscal pressures could also encourage like-minded friendly governments to share resources and stockpiles, leading to other benefits such as increased resilience and cooperation.