why the experimentation with this bacterium?

Have you ever read the book."PLUM ISLAND"????

Since 1954, the center has had the goal of protecting America's livestock from animal diseases. During the Cold War a secret biological weapons program targeting livestock was conducted at the site. This program has been the subject of controversies, and the facility has gained a cult status.

Google: Plum Island NY

The island already is what scientists call "a bio-safety level three" center.

That means its containment areas, which hold germs dangerous mostly to animals but sometimes to humans, have filtered air, sealed doors and negative air pressure that forces any leaked germs back into the labs.