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In the face of complex global health threats—including climate-driven zoonotic spillovers, rising antimicrobial resistance, emerging pathogens and extreme weather events—there is a rising imperative for adaptable and accessible laboratory capacity, particularly in resource-limited settings. In this context, Rapid Response Mobile Laboratories (RRMLs) offer a strategic solution, providing scalable diagnostic surge support across all phases of the health emergency management cycle.1 Unlike stationary laboratories, RRMLs can be swiftly mobilised to deliver services at the point of need, including high-containment diagnostics in hard-to-reach areas. This accelerates turnaround times, enables timely public health interventions and real-time decision-making, improves diagnostic access and helps bridge persistent gaps in fragile health systems. Moreover, RRMLs reinforce outbreak response and disease surveillance, contributing to the development and maintenance of core capacities required under the International Health Regulations (2005).2