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II !

MINES AND

~ . . .MIN BAY DO VIET CO':"I I I

XU DUNG TAlI IMINES ANCi B(MIEN NAM VIET NAM

I

BOOBY TRAPS USED BY THE VIET CONGIN SOUTH VIETNAM

ENGLISH VOWME

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and preserve equip-of l ives and propertyprevented throughlevices and th e tech-:ope, this booklet,will enable personnelles and boobytraps..nformation are th eltallation of Booby-'Ward comments, cor-Intelligence Division.

, u. S. Army

137BANGAl.ORE TORPEDO (

Although th e bangalore torpedo was designed o r i ~ for thebreaching of barbed wire defenses, th e VC have made extensive us e ofit as an antitank and an antipersonnel mine

The i l lustrat ion gives an idea of th e general constrUction of a bang-alore. Other types of bangalores are being used by th e VC including10cal17 constructed types. The appearance and the construction of a l l ofthese bangalores ar e generally the sameE}lPJ:.OYM]2lT. Enemy troops lq th e torpedos on a l ikely vehicle or trocapproach. They conceal themaelves some 12 to 15 meters away in foxholes,&Ad upon th e approach of vehicles or assaulting troops th e VC detonate the

torpedo.::JlSARlgNG: In disanning these objects, cu t any wire attached to th efuze. I f a safety pi n hole .exists, place a small nai l or piece of strong

wire in i t .(

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TABLE OF CONTENTSPage

MINES AND BOOBYTRAP E M P L O ~ ~ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1u. S. FUZES

U.S. Firing Device, Pull Type, Ml ... 47U.S. Firing Device, Delay Type, M I. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49U.S. Firing Device, Pressure Type, MIAl .. 51U.S. Firing Device, Pull-Release Type, M3 . 53U.S. Firing Device, Pressure-Release Type, M5 55SOVIET FUZES

Sonet Pressure FUze MV 5 57O 0 Soviet Pull Fuze MUV..... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . .. . 59Soviet Pull Fuze VPF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61U. S. MINES

U.S. Antipersonnel Mine M2A4 with Fuze M6Al 63U.S. Antipersonnel Mine M3 with Fuze M7Al 65UIO S. Antipersonnel Mine .Ml4 O. IO . O . . . . .O . . IO...... . . . 67U.S. Antipersonnel Mine Ml6Al with Fuze M605 69

I

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f'ageu. S. Tri p Flare 10148 with Fuze N6A l. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . 71u. S. Trip Flare 10149 with Fuze N12 . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . 73U.S. Antitank }tlne M6A2 with Fuze M603 .. 75U.S. Antitank dne M7A2 with Fuze M603 77

saYlEr MINESSoviet Antitank Mine TM-41........................................................................... 79Soviet Antitank. Mine TMB-2........................................................................... 81

CHICOM MINESChicom Antipersonnel and Antitank Mine Number 8 83Chicom P..ntitBJ1l( J.'rine....................................................................................... 85

VIET CONG LOCALLY FABRICATEiJ MINESVC Fixed iJirectional Fragmentation Mine (iJH-IO) 87VC Antipersonnel M ine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89VC Sky" Horse....................................................................................................... 91VC ~ n e Improvised from Shell Case .. 93VC ltToe Popper" Mine........................................................................................ 95VC 5 Gallon Oi l Can Type Mine . 97VC Cylindrical Cast Iron Fragmentation Mine 99

II

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PageVC Cylindrical C e r u ~ n t Fragmentation Mine . . . . . . . . . 101VC Cement l'Turlle" Mine ................................. 103VC Sheet Metal llTur tle" Mine 105ve Cylindrical M,ine .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . 107l.arge VC Water Mine............................................................................................. 109Sntall VC Water Mine III VC Non-electrical Shaped Charge Mine . 113VC Improvised Antipersonnel and Antitank M ine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115VC Electrical AntivehicuIar Shaped Charge Mine 117VC Short Cone Shaped Charge Mine . 119VC Cast Iron Fragmentation Antitank M ine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 121VC "Mound Shaped" Mille 123VC Round VolUDle Mine............................................................................................ 125VC Bicycle M ine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

HISCElLANECUS ASSCCIATED ITEMSU.S. Butterfly B o n ~ (Bomb, Fragmentation M83) 129Chicom TNT Demolition Block ..................................... 131Soviet TNT Demolition Block 133

III

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PageVC Sa.tchel Charge oJ .. .. .. . . . . .. .. .. . . .. .. .. . . . . .. .. .. . . . . .. .. .. .. . . . . .. .. . . .. .. .. .. . . .. .. .. .. .. .. 135Bangalore Torpedo 137Chendcal Firing I>evice.................................................................................... 139Soviet Blasting Machine PN-2 141Chicom Blasting Machine LA2B . 143

BOOBYTRAPS

Spike Trap Box................................................................................................... 145Spike Trap Pit 147Trap Bridge.......................................................................................................... 1.4.9steel Arrow Trap 151Bamboo Whip 153Barbed Spike Plate.............................................. 155Pointed Bamboo stakes 157Cartridge Trap . . . . . . . . . . . . 159Grenade T r ap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161VC B an ne r . . . . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . . . . .. 163Fountain Pen Sabotage Device . . . . . . . . 165Cigarette Lighter Assassination Device . . 167

GWSSARY 168IV

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1MINES AND BOOBYTRAPS OO'WYMENr

1. INrOOIXJCTION.1. PURPOSE.

This booklet provides :inormation on th e Viet Cong techniques ofmine and boobytrap employment and on some of th e devices that ar e used.2. SCOPE.

a. This publication covers various VC methods of employing landmines, water mines, explosive boobytraps, and non-explosive boobytraps.Sections ar e included that identify specific U. S., Soviet, and Chicomfuzes and mines, and typical locally fabricated mines.b. Also included are safety and disarming procedures which em-phasize th e precautions a soldier IlIIlst observe when handling mines andboobytraps.

3. RELATED P U B L I C A ~ ' I O N S . Since th is booklet is limited in scope, i t should be used in con

junction with FM 5-31, "Use and Installation of Boobytraps", FM 20-32,"Land Mine Warfare", and TM 9-1345-200, "Land Mines".

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2

INITIATING ACTIONSTAC f>QNG LAM NO'"

PRESSURE,EPPULL

Figure 1 KEOHinh 1

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34. TERMINOLOGY. (see Glossary fo r other terms).

a. A mine is an explosive device designed to destroy or damagevehicles, ships, boats, or aircraft or to wound or ki l l personnel. I tmay be detonated by th e action of i t s victim, by th e passage of time,or by controlled means.b. A boobytrap i s a device that wil l injure a person who disturbsan a p p a r e n t ~ harmless object or performs a p r e s u m a b ~ safe act.c. A fuze is a mechanical device used to ini t iate a detonation.Fuzes are provided in many forms and sizes. Some have instantaneous actionwhile others have some sort of a delay mechanism. There is a difference be-tween fuze and fuse. A fuse i s a burning device that transmits a flame toignite nonelectrical blasting caps, firecrackers, or similar itelllS.d. A firing device i s a mechanism designed to ini t iate an explosive

t rain. When f i t ted with a blasting cap, i t may be used as a fuze. These de -vices ar e known in foreign armies 8S fuzes, switches, or igniters .e . A friction igniter i s 8 device designed to f ire either a detonatoror blasting cap or to ignite an attached fuse. Pulling a stripping wire causes

a coated wire or friction cord to be stripped through a flash or friction com-pound. This action ignites th e compound, which in tum fires the detonator,cap, or fuse.

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4

INITIATING ACTIONS-rAc f>QNG UiM NO"

TENSION RELEASE PRESSURE RELEASEA' ... , , . ,.sL1c CANG THA TRUNG LAY Vf!!.T i>E BEN TRENFigure 2Hl.nh 2

ELECTRICAL ) i ~ N

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5f . A detonator i s a high explosive element in an explosive t rainwhich is used to create or transmit a detonation wave to a booster or maincharge of explosive.g. The ini t ia t ing action depends on th e design of th e fuze. Mostfuzes ar e designed to be ini t ia ted by one of th e following actions (figures 1, 2) :

(1 ) Pressure. The pressure of a man's foot or th e wheel ortread of a vehicle causes the fuze to function.(2 ) Pull. A pul l on a wire, called a trip wire, attached to

th e fuze ini t iates th e fuze action.0) Tension Release. Cutting a t r ip wire releases th e tensionneeded to keep th e fuze from functioning.

(4) Pressure Release. Removing a restraining weight allows th efuze to function.(5 ) Electrical . Closing an electr ical ci rcui t ini t iates th e fuzeaction.

I I . LAND MINES.1. GENERAL.

There ar e two genoral classes of land mines, antipersonnel and ant i -

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6vehicular. The methods of employment may differ somewhat fo r th e two, butmany of th e same dangers exist in th e case of both types of mines. In th issection, th e land mine techniques will be covered. Specific mines are de-scribed in Section V.

2. TYPICAL MErHODS OF ACTUATION.a. Trip wires. Trip wires may be used with any type of mine orimprovised eJqllosive, either buried or above th e ground. Wires can be se tup with pu l l release devices, tension release devices, or friction igniters .Trip wires are usually well concealed and diff icul t to detect. They may be

mixed with dUlllllW wires to confuse detection teams and may have both endsboobytrapped. Trip wires normally ar e used with devices that have a zerotime delay element in th e fuze which produces an instantaneous explosion.To avoid casualties during disarming, do no t cu t any wires unt i l both endshave been checked fo r boobytraps.b. Electrical detonation. The VC often use command detonated mines.One method requires a man to be concealed some distance from th e explosive witha batter,y pack or hand held generator which i s connected by wires to th e mine.When troops or vehicles are in a position where th e mine will do th e most damage,th e VC detonates i t . I t i s important to check t rees , bushes, and th e edges ofroads fo r wires. I f wires ar e found, they should be cu t one at a time. Watchou t fo r elec tr ica l wires used as t r ip wires and connected to tension release de-vices. When such wires ar e cut, boobytraps may explode.

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7MINEODIRT ROAD OR TRAIL" ~ . . "", v....f l ~ T MIN d fl110NG flAT H O ~ C fl110NG MON

TRIP WIRE StlOULDER M , j BE MINEODAY BAY co THE' f ) ~ T MiN T41 LE lllbNG~ ~ l'"

/ I

REFILLED SECTIONOF ROAD WITHBURIED MINES

MINEMiN

BUFFALO DUNGOVER MINESPHAN TRAU PHULEN MiN

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8c. Pull wire. This i s another cOlllIIlaIld detonation device that i scommonly used. A pull wire i s connected to a pull release device or to afriction igni ter , and a VC conceals himself at th e other end. When a targeti s in position, th e VC pulls th e wire and detonates th e mine. The sameprecautions apply here as apply to the t r ip wire.d. Pressure Devices. These devices ar e COJlllllOnly employed in antivehicular and smaller AP mines. Mines using these devices can be buried,which makes detection diff icul t . Mine clearing part ies IIII1st conduct meterby meter sweeps of th e area as prescribed in FM 20-32.

3. METHODS OF lOO'LOYMENT ON DIID' ROADS AND TRAILS (figure 3).a. Dirt roads

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USING A MINE DETECTOR" , . . . . . .sLf DUNG MAY DO MIN

Figure 4111nh 4

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10c. The VC may dig holes in th e road, lay III1nes in a few of them, and

re f i l l them with dir t . After th e mine detecting teama check dozens of holesand find nothing in most of them, th e next hole may be e:xpected also to beempty and may no t be checked. That carelessness i s what th e VC e:xpect, forthey have probab4r mined that particular hole, hoping you wil l ignore i t .d. Some mines may be planted and then covered with straw, grass,dung, or ~ natural looking substance. The way to avoid casualties i sto check everything.e. Remember, th e above tricks ar e used in addition to th e normalmethods of mine laying used by most armies. The best method of detectingth e mines can be summed up as follows:

(1 ) Check a l l places new4r ref i l led with soi l , covered withstraw or grass, l i t te red with dung, or alIT suspicious looking spot.(2 ) Do no t depend sole4r on a mine detector (figures 4, 5).The detector works on the principle of a magnetic f ield and ha s a limitedrange. I f th e batteries are weak or the detector malfUnctions, th e minewil l no t be found. Then, too, th e enem;y may employ non_ ta l l i c mines. Tocounter this tact ic, th e team should ginger4r probe th e euspected area witha metal rod or bayonet in addition to using the detector. The probing ehouldbe done at an angle to th e ground to lessen chances of sett ing th e IIl1ne off .Proper mine clearing procedures are prescribed in FM 20-32.

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11

PROBING WITH ANISSUE BAYONETDUNG UJOI LE XAM MIN

, ~ ~ R U r e 5! I lnh .5

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12MINED HARD SURFACED ROAD

MiN TREN DUONG cd TRAI DA

MUD SMEARED ON ROADCOVERING MINESTREr BON TREN MAlOlJdNG cO MiN

WIRE TO VCDAY GIANG BAy vc

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13(3 ) Be patient and continuall7 check and recheck possiblemine locations. Do no t fal l in to th e trap of assuming there is no minein a hole because i t wasn't there yesterday. The VC want you to do this .(4 ) Work with th e local people who may be able to provideinformation on possible VC mine laying operations.

4. M},'I'HODS OF OO'LOYMENT ON HARD SURFACED ROADS (figure 6).a . Hard surfaced roads present a more diff icul t problem of con-

cealing mines than do di r t roads. The VC may come up with some verT ef-fective ways to t r ick mine detecting teams.b. The VC tunnel under th e road from the shoulder and plant amine. The VC prepares th e mine fo r cOllllll&nd detonation, usuall7 elec-t r i ca l , and carefull7 f i l l s in the tunnel. Traces of this burrowing ac-t ivi ty can be eliminated because of th e dir t shoulder. The leads to th emine are concealed and generall7 terminate in a place where a VC can hidewhile waiting for his victim. This setup i s a verT diff icul t one to detectand requires careful inspectton of th e shoulders of th e road fo r wires ortraces of digging. I f wires are found, they should be checked and cut.Then th e mine DlUst be dug up and disarmed or destroyed.

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14c. Tricks are employed which are similar to those used on dir troads. One of these includes digging up sections of the road. After theseareas are f i l led in , th e VC return and lay mines in a few of them. This i sth e same tact ic used on dir t roads and is countered in th e same way by con-stant checking.d. The VC smear th e road with mud. This condition forces a minedetecting team to check th e area carefully. The smearing may go on for sev-era l days unt i l one day th e VC emplace mines in th e muddied sections. Themine detecting teams, having checked the areas before with no results, maybecome a l i t t l e careless and miss these mines. Again, this carelessness i swhat th e VC expect. The smeared areas must be carefully checked each timetroops must cross them.e. Another t r ick i s to di g up th e road, la y the mine, and re f i l lth e hole with asphalt. A spot usually remains that contrasts . , ith th e sur-

rounding asphalt . To avoid detection, the VC us e a t i re to m rk across th epatch and blend it in with th e road surface. To counter thie tac t ic , th edetection team must be alert for an:r signs of road repair . Each spot. mustbe carefully checked with a detector and a probe.f . The soft earth ehoulders of surfaced roads are often mined. Thistactic is easily accomplished and provides an effective trap fo r unwary troops.This method is no t limited to hard surfaced roads bu t also may be used on dir troads and t ra i l s . Roadside mining is used most often in ambush si tes wherethe vehicles an d men ar e to be driven off th e road by f i re . Heavy casualties

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BRANCH

S H E L L . _ M _ - - ~ ? '

15

60-MM MORTAR SUNG COl 60 LY

TRIP WIRE ATTACHED TODAY BAY BUQC VAO CANH CAY

TREE MOUNTED ANTI-PERSONNEL MINEMiN CHONG NGUOI TREN THAN CAY

FigureHlnh

77

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16have resulted in this type of operation. Again, th e watchword i s caution andthoroughness when clearing the road.

g. These methods nay be countered with th e same techniques used incountering dir t road mining. Successful clearing operations require patienceand thoroughness. The procedures prescribed in FM 20-32 should be used toinsure maximum effectiveness and safety.5. OTHER TEX::HNIQUES OF EM'LOYMENT (f igure 7).

a. The VC us e various methods to deceive their victims and toincrease the effectiveness of th e mines employed. These t r icks ar e l im-i ted only by th e user ' s ingenuity.b. To lure soldiers into a t rap, i t has been common practice inother wars to use various items as bait . The VC also use this technique.Likely looking items will be lef t in areas that are mined and boobytrapped.These items may be weapons, VC flags, documents, uniforms, or just aboutan;ything that troops would be interested in from a souvenir, personal com-for t , or intelligence standpoint. When a person goes to examine them, heis blown to bi t s .c. The VC employ mines above th e ground along land and water routes

used by th e enemy. This is a particularly favored and effective method ofusing mines improvised from art i l lery or mortar ammunition. The mines may beplaced in rotten tree t runks, on st icks, next to or in termite mounds, at the

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17base of or in th e branches of t rees , in bushes, or in a ~ concealment thataffords a "sweeping" action for the fragments. In high grass areas the VCmay just la y th e mines on th e ground with no other camouflage.

d. lolines may be laid on th e bottom of stream beds fo r t r ip . i reini t iat ion, pressure in t ia t ion , or cOJlJllJ&nd detonation. These mines may beplaced at fords or wherever troops could be expected to wade through th e water.e. The VC also employ mines in their defensive positions. TheI1I-lO, a version of th e US "Claymore" mine, i s particularly effective asa defensive mine. The llIl-IO mine, described later in this book, may be used

against troops moving along roads, t r a i l s , or assaulting a position. Themine is most effective when employed along restricted paths. I t may berigged with a t r ip wire, but normally i t i s electr ical ly detonated by aconcealed VC.6. UKELY PLACES OF EMPWYMENr.

a. This paragraph summarizes places where mines are most likely tobe used, although you Dalst expect th e VC to employ mines anywhere.b. Generally, mines are used wherever troops can be expected tobunch up , slow down, or present a good ta rget . SUch areas are bridges,

curves in roads or canals, single track roads or t r a i l s , junctions, hi l lsides, huts, and l ikely rest areas. A ~ place that i s a good ambush si tei s usually a good mine si te, and mines ar e otten employed with ambushes.

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18

METHOD OF VC MINE MARKING, , ,.1 , , ' t . . . .. 2.CACH DANH DAU CHO D ~ T MIN CUA VC

GROWING GRASS TIED INTO BUNCHES11> " , ..-AY CO in/dc TUM LAI THANH n/NG, , . .

80 NHO

Figure 8Hinh 8

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19Since many of th e larger mines ar e cOlilmand detonated, th e VC mny timesneed a place of cover and concealment fo r th e person who will ini t iate th emine. I f an ambush is to be employed with mines, then th e ambushers needpositions affording protection from fra,,:ments.

7. VIEr CONG JlJ.El'HODS OF MARKING MINES (figures 8, 9) .a. Not much i s known about th e VC methods of te l l ing their owntroops where mines are located. However, there are two methods that havebeen reported and ar e given here as examples. I t is emphasized that thesemay not apply country-wide.b. In one tact ical zone, th e VC t i e growing grass into bunchesat each corner of a 2 meter square. The mine is located in the center ofth e square.c. Along roads and t r a i l s , sticks or stones msy be used to markmine fields. For example, in one tact ical zone a stick broken at a rightangle and lying aero as th e road may mean a VC boobytrap or mine 20Q-400meters ahead. A st ick or length of bamboo lying l '6rallel to th e edge of th eroad or t r a i l may indicate a clear route. Three sticks or stones, one ateach side of the road and one in th e center, may mean that th e road shouldno t be used.

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/7~

STICK PARALLEL TO ROAD MEANS ROAD IS" ,. ... , . . . , tOPEN Gf;I"! af;lT /lONG SONG, VOl alldNG CO NGHIALA allONG aA alldc MOFi,gure 9 .Hirili 9

METHODS OF, , A'CACH DANH DAU

STICK BROKEN AT A RIGHTANGLE ACROSS ROAD MEANSMINES OR BOOBY TRAPS200-400 METERS ON, ,. .... ,KHUC CAY BE HINH THlIClc THel.. 4 .. .." ..T[lEN . a l l e l ~ G CO ,NGHIA LAMIN BAY gACH aAY 200Tell 40 0 THlIClc

20

VC MINE MARKING"," . , ... "CHO DJ:\T MIN CUA VC3 STICKS OR STONES IN SIMILARPATTERN MEANS DON'T USE ROAD.

B{l cC;>c. H O . ~ C 3 . C ~ C aA iEP NHlIHINH VE CO NGHIA LA 1l1l0NG KHONGDUNG a l l ~ C (CO MiN I

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21I I I . WATER MINES.

1 . GENERAL.The VC have used water mines against th e river fleet with a largemeasure of success. The mines have been locally fabricated, bu t they arevery effective. Typical water mines are described in Section V.

2. TYPICAL MEl'HODS OF INITIATING.Water mines ar e exploded almost exclusively by command detonation,

either electrically or by pull wire. This method requires elec tr ica l orpull wires running to th e shere where a concealed man explodes th e mine whena target passes.3. NErHODS OF OO'LOYMENT (figures 10-12).

a . Water mines have been used in canals and rivers. The techniquesar e similar in both applications.b. The VC t ie mines and explosives to t ree trunks or pu t them intoboats and place these items in th e middle of th e waterway. When a targetpasses by , th e mine is exploded. The boat t r ick is particularly effective

since it will lure someone in our friendly forces craft to investigate. l'lhenth e tree trunks are employed, some form of camouflage, such as duck weed, isneeded. The command detonation technique makes it necessary to check suspicious looking objects from a distance before approaching and to spot th ewires leacing to th e shore.

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22

WATER MINE1 THUY LOI

ANCHORA ,. ORANGE CIRCULAR TUBE

DAY C

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23c. The VC have been known to plant command detonated mines in th ebottom of shallow waterways, such as canals that ar e less than a meter indepth, even at high water. Friendly forces should be on th e lookout fo r wiresrunning to th e shore which enable th e VC to explode a mine when a vessel passes.d. In deep channels, mines ar e set up at varying depths to besthandle different vessels. Some of th e mines nay be controlled from th e shore,while others ar e set at given depths. The mines can also be se t up in such amanner that VC on th e r iver banks can position them in th e paths of targets.e. Most water mines appear to have one thing in common; th e deton-

ation i s usually in i t ia ted electrically. Conventional mine sweeping opera-t ions will detect these mines, bu t there is th e danger that during th e courseof the operation a mine will be detonated by a VC on th e river bank. Usinginformation from local people i s the best way to detect and to make provisionsto eliminate a mine threat .4 . LIKELY PLACES OF EHfLCYl'iID.'T.

a. \'1ater mine locations are similar to those fo r land mines. TheVC seek to place water mines where vessels must slow down, bunch up , or stop.

b. The mines may be found at bends, narrow strai ts , and in mid-channel. Since some water mines can be positioned by the operator on th eshore, they may be located anywhere in a channel. Since water mines are oftenused with ambushes, l ikely ambush sites are also likely mine s i tes .

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WATER MINE, ATHUY LOI(

WIRES TO BATTERIES ON SHORE.. .. ..-. . .DAY lIEN DONG TU CHO lAT TRAI.. ,;, . . . . . .MIN lEN eo SONG

STONE WEIGHT, 'TANG lA

F ' ~ g u r e lrflinh 11

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25

WATER MINE, ,.THUY LOI

WIRES TO BATTERIES ON SHORE" ,.. .. - ..' . , ,DAY lIEN DONG TI l CHO OAT. TRAI.. '':' ~ , . MIN DEN eO SONG

MINE CAN BE MOVED BACK AND FORTH INTOPATH OF BOAT

.. , ",' '" , ."MIN CO THE 01 lONG CHO HOP v61 HlldNG1" . 01 CUA TAU Figure 12Hinh 12

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26BOOBYTRAPPING ONE MINE TO ANOTHER" ...." .."GAl BAY MIN NO VAO MIN KIA

figure 13rd.nh 13

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27IV. BUOBYThAP.,.

Boobytraps have been used from th e earliest days of recorded history. Ranging from a ~ i m p l e hole in th e ground to a complicated explosivedevice, th e boobytrap is an effective way to cause enemy casualties andhamper enemy operations at a low cost to yourself. The effective use ofboobytra.ps also undermines th e morale of enemy forces. This section isintended to orient th e soldier on th e potential uses of explosive andnon-explosive boobytraps encountered in Vietnam.2. EXPWSIVE BOOBYTRAP EMPWYMENT.

a. Explosive b o o b ~ ' " t r a p s ar e extensively employed by th e VC in a llphases of their operations, from combat to sabotaRe. The traps vary fromth e s i n ~ l e s t devices to fairly complicated items. Explosive boobytraps ar einitiated in th e same manner as mines, using th e same firing devices and fuzes.The tricks used to lure victims into mined areas are also used to lure theminto boobyt ra pped areas.b. One of th e most common uses of explosive boobytraps is with mines.When mines ar e being cleared, each one must be checked fo r boobytraps. This

involves searchinR fo r v a I ~ o u s devices that could possibly detonate a mine andthat are in addition to th e main fuzes (figures 13, 14).

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28

MULTIPLE BOOBYTRAPPED MINEMiN GAl NHIE'U B ~

(

STAKEcQcACTIVATORNG61 NO'

ACTIVATOR. ..GOI NOPRESSURE-RELEASE PRESSURE BOARD

FIRING DEVICE TAM C H ~ N Bo? KicH HOA L O ~ \ 1 THA EP

, ' igure 14Hinh 14

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29c. Items such as weapons, uniforms, dead bodies, binoculars, flags,vehicles, and a host of other objects may be rigged with explosive boobytraps(figures 15-18).d. Buildings of a l l types offer th e enemy unlimited boobytrappingopportunities. Entranceways, furniture, windows, floorboards, plumbing, andelectrical circuits can be effectively boobytrapped (figures 19 , 20).e. Another type of boobytrap is th e device that looks innocent butis deadly. Such devices take the forms of f o u r ~ a i n pens, cigarette l ighters,packages, and other ordinary items. These devices have been extensively usedin th e towns and ci t ies . Two such devices ar e described in Section V.f. Roads, t ra i ls , and paths offer excellent locations for b o c b y t r a ~ s (figures 21-23). The boobytraps ar e usually attached to obstacles such as rocksor tree limbs. Troops in a hurry may brush by these, or hastily remove them,without checking fo r t r ip wires or pressure release devices. There may be durrnwtraps among th e real ones which may annoy th e average soldier to t te point of'becoming reckless.g. Areas containing supplies ar e easily boobytrapped (fi,7Ures 24-26).Al l caches of weapons, food, amDlunition, and other materipl nust be carefullysearched fo r boobytraps before they are moved or destroyed.

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~ ~ ~ ~ ~ . WITHHITSKHISAY

30

BOOBYTRAPPEDSOUVENIR (

GAl BAY NO' vAo KY N I ~ M

SOLDIER PICKS UP SOUVENIRON TOP OF FIRING DEVICE: 6 H K ~ : N ~ ~ ~ KY N I ~ M ~ T TREN

WEIGHT GONE SPRING DRIVEN STRIKERPERCUSSION CAP SETTING IT OFFKHONG CON suc SE: BEN TREN. THi LO soKIM HOA CH"'M vAo sAl! CH"'M NO'

PERCUSSION CAP SETS OFFDETONATORsA'u CH"'M NO' UIM NO K(p NO'DETONATOR SETS OFF MAIN CHARGEKip NO' U\M NO' THUOC NO' CHINH

f'iRUre 15Hinh 15

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31h. The number and types of explosive boobytraps ar e unlimited. Asboobytraps ar e dependent only on th e user's ingenuity, some tr icky devicesar e encountered. To avoid hazards, be patient and thorough. A hasty approachwill lead to trouble. Proper procedures ar e prescribed in FM5-31.

3. NON-EXPLOSIVE BOOBYTRAP EMPLOYMENT.a. Non-explosive boobytraps will generally be employea in a mannersimilar to mines. The locations ar e the s a n ~ , bu t these non-explosive trapsare primarily aimed at personnel. Non-explosive boobytraps take variousforms, but a l l take advantage of local materials and natural camouflage.Specific types ar e illustrated in Section V.b. Non-explosive boobytraps are often employed with mines and at ambush sites. Such boobytraps provide a means of hindering th e progress of troopsmoving along roads and t ra i ls . Muddy roads and t ra i ls provide th e necessarycamouflage fo r pits , and heavy vegetation will cover a multitude of traps.Open, grassy areas ar e no t immune, as spiked plates and pits may be used.Stream beds are often boobytrapped at fords or wherever troops ar e likely to pass.c. As with a ll boobytraps, th e VC expect you to be in a hurry andnot take th e time to carefully check fo r these traps. The VC ar e extremelygood at disguising their traps, and only a thorough, patient check of your

route will reveal th e traps. Indicators to watch fo r are shiny metal, fla tareas, differences in color of vegetation, t r ip wires, and anything thatappears to be out of place. Again, i t is emphasized that th e best way toavoid these hazards is to obtain information from th e local people who generally know where th e traps are located.

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32FIREWOOD BOOBYTRAPB$f( NO' GAl VAO CUI DUN{J.1I1c

~ .

PULL WIRE __ ~ DAY KEO

PULL FUZE ---ellNGOI NO' KEO

CHARGETHUOc NO' i,

Fi$!Ure 16Hinh 16

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33WAR TROPHY BOOBYTRAPBAY N6 GAl vAo CHIEN L

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34

SOLDIER TURNS IGNITION ELECTRIC DETONATORSWITCH IN VEHICLE SETS OFF MAINTO ON POSITION CHARGETtll XE MO' NUM CONG nic XE NGOI NO'DIEN UIM NO'THUOC NO'

IGNITION BOOBYTRAPBAY NO' GAl VAO NUM C6NGTic XEFi;rure 18

Hlnh It:

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35

BUILDING BOOBYTRAP - LOOSE FLOORBOARDBAY NO'" GAl TRONG NHA - SAN GO'" KHONG GHEP C H ~ T

LOOSE FLOORBOARDSAN GO' KHONG GHEP C H ~ T

NONELECTRIC PRESSURE FIRING DETONATING CORDBLASTING CAP DEVICE DAY CHUYEN NO'K jp NO' THliONG 89 KIM HOA LD(\I EP figure 19nint 19

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BAY NO' GAl VAO NHA cllA - LOI VAo"PULL FRICTIONF1RI\IG DEVICE~ KoCH HdA lotICQ XAT KEO

"o;l". "=

TNT BLOCKSKHOi THu6C NO" TNT =

CLOSED DOOR TRAPBAY NOGAl vllo ellA l6NG Figure 20HLib 20

36BUILDING BOOBYTRAPS - ENTRANCE

=

~ ! ~ .

OPEN DOOR TRAPBAY NO GAl VAo ciJA Me)'

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37

OBSTACLE BOOBYTRAPBAY NO' GAl VAO CHUONG NGI;II

WIRE CHARGEDAY THUOC NO'

Figure 21H1nh 2l

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38ROADSIDE BOOBYTRAPA, ,BAY MIN VEN D116NG

(I,

DETONATINGCORD

DAY CHUYEN NO'

PULL TYPE FIRING DEVICE80 KICH HOA L0/:l1 KEO

SERIES OFCONNECTED CHARGESLO(\ T THUOC NO' fJ,liT NO'I T i ~ p

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39

WHEEL-TRACK BOOBYTRAPB ~ NO' GAl XE C H ~ Y BANH

PULL TYPE FIRING DEVICE TAUT WIRE KICH HOA LO.t\I KEO DAY CANG THiNGEXPLOSIVE CHARGE

LiEu THUOc NO'

FiP'Ure 23Hlnll 23

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40BOOBYTRAPPING SUPPLIES

, ~ ~ , , M ~ BAY NO GAl VAO TIEP PHAM

TRIP WIRE ATTACHE!) CHARGETO CEMENT BAd" THUOc NO'DAY FlAy BUOC VAO BAD XI - MANGPULL TYPEFIRING DEVicE

BQ KICH HOA LOAI KEO. "NOIllELECTRIC . BLASTING CAP,---.;'----- '/>., Kip NO'THlIClNG

NOTE, A NONELECTRIC Il(ASTING CAP' ... ,MUST BE CRIMPED ONTOI.THE EXPLOSIyt;END OF THE D E T O N A T I N ~ R D ENTERIN,CJTHE CHARGEdu Nt) THtJaNG "Hll ) l . 1 ~ c VAO DAu DAY CHUYENNOTRUYEN VA-O THU'OC NO" Figure 24

Hlnh 24

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41

BOOBYTRAPPING AN AMMUNITION DUMPBAY GAl VAO KHO DUQC

Figure 25Hinh 25

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42

SUPPLY DUMP BOOBYTRAPBAy GAl VA-O KHO TiEP L 1 ~ U

(

PULL RELEASE TNT BLOCKSFIRING DEVICE KHOI THUOC NO'TNT KI'CH H6A LO",I THA KEOPigure 26Hirth 26

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434. GENEIiAL fREX::AUTIONS.

a. Do not be in to o IllUch of a hurry, i f at a ll possible. As th e name"boobytraps" implies, they ar e used to catch th e careless soldier.b. !-!hen sweeping an area, remember that both explosive and non-explosive boobytraps may be employed with mines.c. Be suspicious of a l l objects that appear to be loose. wnenchecking captured factories, supply dumps, or materiel watch fo r boobytraps.d. Before cutting taut t r ip wires check both ends fo r boobytrapping.One end may be attached to a tension release device. Before disturbing anyobject check i t fo r wires and pressure release devices.e. I f you find explosive boobytraps, destroy them in p ] ~ c e or markthem and leave them alone. Unless it is absolutely necessary for you to movethem, le t explosive ordnance disposal personnel take care of removal and disposal.f . Do not take anything for granted. An object may appear to beinnocent, bu t i f i t i s found in suspicious circumstances, expect a trap.g. Boobytraps ar e dangerous, effective weapons, but i f you show a

healthy respect fo r them and handle them properly you should not be a casualty.

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44V. SPECIFIC FUZES, MINES, AND BOOBYTRAPS.

This section is intended to provide a means of identifying specific minesand boobytraps and to cover some basic disarming procedures. Further information on U.S. f ir ing devices and mines is given in TM 9-l345-200. (

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45

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Pul l r ingVOng keD",.. t { e ~ e a s e ,PinChot tha

Locking safety pint a an- tOan ~ - - - R " l e _ f in oJ/ring

10 so OI10t tha

Srlit,he!JdDali X8 r::xlh

S ~ r i k e r spri,ng10 80 kim ho a

t - - - ~ S t r i k e ro ~ i t i v e ~ a f e t y ~ p i n Kim h6 aChot un-toan cLinh___ Peroussion oap~ - ' Ha t

(tandard baseD8.y

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47U.S. FIRING DEVICE, PULL TYPE, Ml

This f ir ing device has been employed by friendly forces and is in th ehands of the VC. I t is especially useful in antipersonnel mines and boobyt raps .FUNCTIONING. A pul l on th e ring causes th e spl i t head of th e str ikerto compress and to be released. This action f ires th e device.:JISARMING. Insert the posit ive and locking safety pins. :Jisconnectany t r ip wires. Unscrew th e base fo r destruction or safe storage.CAUTION. Do not attempt to remove th e detonator from th e base.

CHARACTERISTICSType PullOperating Pull . . . . . .. 1.35-2.30 kg (3-5pounds)Material of Case ... MetalColor . OD

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ba>JE: \ ! \ot to be;1uac thoo rrtl;

!I f ( 'd lreoree

I.; ;

removed}

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49u.s. FIRING DEVICE, DElAY TYPE, Ml

This f ir ing device i s employed in this theatre by th e RVNAF and maybe in the hands of th e VC.FUNCTIONING. A pressure of 2.30 kg (5 pounds) or more will crush th eglass vial of acid that i s contained inside the fuze. The acid eats awayth e restraining wire, causing th e str iker to h it and detonate th e percussion cap. The color of the safety str ip indicates the time of delay. Thedevice ma;y have a 4 minute to 9 day delay.lJlSARJviING. There is no safe way to disarm this device. If absolutelynecessary, insert a eafety pin or nai l through the inspection holes anddestroy in place or cal l explosive ordnance disposal personnel for assistance.

CHARACTERISTICST;y})e Chemi.cal delayMaterial of Case . Upper half-GopperLower half-BrassColor . Unpainted except fo rsafety tab .

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(

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51U.S. FIRING DEVICE, PRESSURE TYPE, MIAI

The MIAI has been frequently used by RVNAF and may also be in th e handsof the VC. I t may be used to detonate antipersonnel mines and other explo-sive charges, including boobytraps.FUNCTIONING. A pressure of 9.20 kg (20 pounds) or more on th e pressurecap depresses th e trigger spring, which causes th e trigger pi n to move intoth e barrel of the device. This action releases the striker and fires th e device.DlSARMlNG. Place th e safety pin or a nail in th e positive safety pin-

hole. If a safety clip i s available, replace i t . The device will not fire aslong as the positive safety pi n is in. Unscrew th e base fo r destruction orsafe storage.CAUTION. Do not attempt to remove th e detonator from th e base.

CHARACTERISTICSType . Operating Pressure . . .Material of Case Color . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Pressure9.20 kg (20 pounds)MetalOD

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52 J . Trlp 1!irsDa,y R!\tchet- l igam rl1ng etta

WinCh, TrlfC xeoCO,tter pi nI " ( - - - - C h ~ t 1UOi as.

,i

- . ;r--_ {el ease pinCh$t Anchor c o r d ~ ______Day neo '

F ~ r i n g pi n ~ p r i n g " U> so kim ho aFirln/i pi nKim hoa

P e r c ~ s i o n prim'er - - - j r t - tJ lH,:t no

Safety pin (posi t ivs)Remove l a s t0h9t sn-tasn ~ h ! n h . Thao r a Bau cungcoupling base_____ Cel lu lo id proteotor- Nip aha bing nh:ta

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53u. S. FIRING DEVICE, PULL-RELEASE TYPE, 1'3

This firing device i s used by RVNAF in antipersonnel mines and booby-traps, and may be in th e hands of th e VC.FUNCTIONING. A pull of 2.8 to 4.6 kg (6 to 10 pounds) on a t r ip wire,or a release of tension on a t r ip wire, allows th e str iker to become ais-engaged from th e release pi n to f ire th e device.DISARIUNG. Firs t inser t the positive safety pin. Then insert th elocking safety pin and remove th e t r ip Wire from th e winch. Unscrew th ebase for safe storage or destruction.CAUTION. !Xl NOT TOUCH 'l'lUI' loJIRE!! Do not attempt to remove th e det-onator from the base.

CHARACTERISTICSType .. Pull and tension releaseOperating Pull .. 2.8 to 4.6 kg (6 to 10 pounds)or a release of tensionl1aterial of Case MetalColor .. OD

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55U.S. FIRING DEVICE, FRESSURE-RELEASE TYFE, M5

This f ir ing device i s used as an anti l i f t ing device in boobytrapsand mines by RVNAF and may be in the hands of th e VC.FUNCTIONING. When a restraining load of at least 2. 3 kg (5 pounds) i sremoved from th e latch, a swing lever within th e device i s released, strikesth e percussion cap and in i t ia tes th e f ir ing chain.DISARl'ilNG. DO NOT DlSTURB THE RESTRAINING WAD ON THE LATCH. Insertthe posit ive safety (nai l or wire) through the large intercepter holes,and then inser t th e locking safety pin. I t i s then safe to remove th erestraining load. Unscrew th e base fo r safe storage or destruction.CAUTION. Do no t attempt to remove th e detonator from th e base.

CHARACTERISTICSType . Pressure releaseRestraining pressure 2. 3 kg (5 pounds) minimumMaterial of Case . . NetalColor . . . . . . . . ........... Light khaki, green

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,FR,:':S :') t H::; 1''1 {;)ovi t;It)lli , l'i'I", "j ir "[,!iF"C

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57SOVIET PRESSURE FUZE MV-5

The enemy in Korea made extensive use of this fuze in th e TM-41 ant i -tank mine and in th e TMD-B Wooden Box Antitank mine. I t may also be usedin th e TMB-l, TMB-2, and TM8-B mines. I t may be available to th e VC.FUr.x::TlONlNG. A pressure of 10.1 kg (22 pounds) on the top of th e fuzemoves th e pressure cap down to a position where th e striker retaining bal lmoves into a recess at th e side of the cap. This action releases th e springloaded s t r iker which fires th e fuze.DlSA&'lING. Remove th e fuze from th e mine and unscrew th e base with th edetonator.CAUTION. The detonator i s extremely sensitivecare IIIl1st be exercised in removing and handling i t .th e detonator from th e base.

to pressure and heat,Do not attempt to remsoove

CHARACTERISTICSType PressureOperating Pressure . 10.1 kg (22 pounds)Material of Case.. .. . MetalColor........................ Varies

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(

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59WVIEr PULL FUZE MUV

This simply constructed fuze has been frequently emF,loyed by th e Communists, especially in improvised antipersonnel mines and boobytraps thatar e rigged with t r ip wires. I t is also used in th e fOZ-2, PKD-6, and Y f u ~ series mines.FUNCTIONING. A force of 0.9 kg (2 pounds) will remove th e str iker re -taining pi n and release th e spring driven str iker to fire the fuze.DISARJ-ITNG. Cut any slack t r ip wires that are attached to th e eye of thestriker retaining pin. Remove th e fuze from th e mine and unscrew th e basewith th e detonator. This fuze also may be se t with a taut t r ip wire attachedto th e upper hole of th e str iker with th e s triker retaining pi n remcved. Thefuze will function when th e t r ip wire is cut. In this case, insert a nail orwire in th e exposed lower striker retaining pin hole, and then cut th e tautt r ip wire. This fuze will function even though a nail or pin is in th e upperhole.CAUTION. The detonator is extremely sensitivecare must be exercised in remcving and handling i t .th e detonator from th e base.

to pressureDo not anaattempt heat, andto remove

CHARACTERIb"l'ICS'I'ype .. Pull or tension releaseOperating pull . . . . . . 0.9 kg (2 pounds)11aterial of Case Metal, plastic, and rubbercompositionColor .. Varies

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(I

iI

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61seVIEr PULL FUZE VPF

This fuze was reportedly encountered on a few occasions in Korea.I t i s used in standard and improvised mines of a l l kinds, both on landand in the water. I t s us e by th e Viet Cong should be anticipated.

F1JNCTlONING. This fuze is normally se t to function by pull on th epull ring, bu t may be f i t ted with a rod projecting from th e clamp to p sothat i t will function by lateral pressure or pull on th e rod. "''hen eitheraction occurs, th e claw-like base of the clamp to p releases the ball-shapedend of the st r iker , thus releasing the str iker .DISARMING. Carefully inser t a nail or wire through the safety pin holeand then remove th e fuze from th e mine and unscrew th e base with th e detonator.CAUTION. Due to th e sensit ivity of th is fuze, extreme care must be usedin handling. Do no t force th e parts. Do not attempt to remove th e detonatorfrom th e base.blown in place. I t i s recommended that mines f i t ted with this type of fuze be

CHARACTERISTICSTypeOperatin

MateriaColor

g force . . . . . . . . .

l of Case . . . . .

.

..

Pull (also lateral pressureon an extension rod)3.9-6.4 kg (8.5-14 pounds) pullor 1-1.6 kg (2.5-3.5 pounds) l a t -era l pressure on extension rodHetalVaries

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63US ANTIPERSONNEL MINE M2A4 wITH FUZE M6Al

This series of mines i s of th e "bounding" t}'Pe. To obtain a moreeffective fragmentation pattern the burst charge contained in a project i le i s projected several feet into th e a ir by a propelling chargebefore i t is exploded. It has a casualty radius of 10 meters and i sdangerous to 150 meters. I t is employed by burying and leaving the topof th e fuze projecting above the ground. I t may be fired by pressure ort r ip wire when used with th e M6Al fuze.

FUNCTIONING. A pressure of 3.7 to 9. 2 kg (8 to 20 pounds) on one ormore of th e three prongs, or a pul l of 1.4 to 4.6 kg (3 to 10 pounds)on a t r ip wire attached to the release pin, causes th e release of thef ir ing pin which strikes th e primer and ini t iates th e propelling and ex plosive charges. The shel l i s projected into th e a i r , and th e delaycharge causes th e explosive t ra in to function, bursting th e shell a t aheight of 2-3 meters.

DISARlfJNG. CarefUlly inspect fo r boobytraps and uncover th e mine toexpose th e safety pi n hole and th e locking pin hole. Insert th e safetypins. Disconnect th e t r ip wires. Remove th e fuze from th e mine.CHARACTERIsrICS

Weight .. 2.30 kg (5.01 pounds)Weight of explosive . . 0.16 kg (.34 pounds) of TNT~ a m e t e r .. 24.4 Cllt (9.63 inches)Height .. 9.5 em (3.75 inches)Color .. OD with yellow markings

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(

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65u.s. ANrIPERSONNEL MINE M3 WITH FUZE M7Al

This i s a fragmentation type mine. I t consists of a high explosivecharge in a heavy cast iron case. I t is normally employed a t th e sur-face of th e ground, bu t i t may be employed above th e ground fo r increasedeffect . This mine has three fuze wells permitting boobytrapping with avariety of fuzing arrangements. I t is normally installed with th e M7Alfuze.FUNCTIONING. A pressure of 3.68 to 9.20 kg (8 to 20 pounds) on any ofthe fuze prongs or a pull of 1.35 to 4.60 kg (3 to 10 pounds) on the releasepi n wil l release the fi:ring pin which wil l str ike th e primer and ini t iate

the explosive t rain.DISARMING. Carefully remove camouflage an d dirt . This mine is veryadaptable to boobytraps, so examine i t carefully before beginning removal.Insert th e firing pin safety pin (positive) f i rs t , and then inser t th e re-lease pin safety pi n (locking). Disconnect th e wires. Remove th e mine andremove th e fuze or fuzes.

CHARACTERISrrCS\ieight" ". . . "" "". . . "". . . " 5.1 kg (11 pounds)Weight of explosive . 0.41 kg (.90 pounds) of TNTWidth " " "" . . . . . " "." 8.9 cm (3.5 inches)Height. """"", . ". ". """. . . ". . 22.1 cm (8.7 inches)Color" ". . . "". " "" OD with yellow markings

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Safety o l ~ p 1 n p o s i t i o r : r T o ~ vi!",Eep an-toan, vi- t r ! nhin tt l tren

I ~ d i c a t i n g . a r r o w l1ui te n ch i Vertioal ribsC.wng san th ling ,!Un, (:Jl1fety olip an-toM.Carrying cordDay man;

.;a{ety o l ~ p r e ~ o v e g . , v:ew "-Chat ftJ:l-toan eta thao,nhin ben hong

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67U. S. At.'TIFERSONNEL MINE Ml4

This plast ic , pocket size M14 mine was designed to inf l ict injuriesrequiring prolonged hospitalization rather than to ki l l . The mine may beburied in roads, footpaths, or other local avenues of approach for foottroops. Because of i t s plastic construction, th e Ml4 i s extremely di f f i -cult to detect by electronic means.FUNCTIONING. A pressure of 9.20 to 16.1 kg (20 to .35 pounds) of pressureon the pressure plate causes a bel levi l le spring to reverse i t sel f and driveth e firing pin into th e detonator, causing i t to f i re , thus setting off th e

main charge.mSARMING. Carefully uncover th e concealed mine. Neutralize any booby-traps. Examine th e sides and bottom of the mine fo r an y evidence of activ-ation, damage, or malfunctioning. I f there i s any evidence of damage ormalfunctioning, do not attempt to neutralize th e mine. Destroy i t in place.Insert th e safety clip in th e slots in the pressure plate.

CHARACTERISTICSWeight .. 0. 1 kg (.3 .3.3 ounces)Weight of explosive . . 0.0.3 kg (1 ounce) of t e t ry l:Diameter .. 5.7 cm (2.2 inches)Height .. 4. 4 cm (1.6 inches)Color .. OD with yellow markings

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I n 1 a r l o ~ k i n g , p 1 n

Posi t ive safety pi n ReI:love l as tC h ~ t an tOM oh1rhRu t sa a

Chot l i en khonP::rossu:;-e springW so ap-1:te101king, safety ,:pinChot khoa an-toan

P e r o ~ s i o n primerno} ' 1 ' - > _ J ~ 8 n ta ;ti)m g ~ ~ ~ l (Body)IIjIler ca,sini5 T:u.. 1 , ~ J . . n k}-ua ( '10)Vo t rong

ch",rGe(l-Jursting charge)kl:d.a( h u ~ c do t cha,y)Delty Ohl,i-::"li:,,?l 'huoc tr i-hol '.n !lo!J te r A ? h ~ , I I . -. l'"l1)oc mol. no 00),- - Jr:d;onator - Kip nt!

I r i ! ~ E . ' r .< m i x i ~ AOuter CfUli.r.;', _ _ _ ;:'!P ohat mol. no. .Vo ngoai J e ~ a y , ; l e m ~ t _ ~ h q J l tu t r i - hoan

Flash 187)1te t oh'ge ' : : ; X l ) ~ lli:;tl; ~ h a r b r eThuSc -phao ltta. '-i:hcoc no tong

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69

u. S. A ~ T I f E ] ( S O N N E L ~ l l N E N16Al WITH FUZE 10::605This rnine i s of the "bounding" type and functions in a manner similarto the m:i.ne V2.A4 previously described. The mine ha s an explosive chargethree times larger than th e N2A4, with a resultant more effect ive fragmentation pattern and a larger effective radius. I t i s employed byburying, leaving only th e top of th e fuze project ing. I t can be activatedby pressure on a t r ip wire.FUI>CTlOND:G. A pressure of 3.7-9.2 kg (8 to 20 pounds) on any of thethree prongs of the fuze, or a pull of 1.4-4.6 kg C3 to 10 pounds) on th erelease pin, causes th e f i r ing pin to st r ike th e primer and in i t ia te th epropellant t ra in . The mine propell ing charge projects th e cast iron shel ls t ra ight up and igni tes th e two detonator delay charges. These chargesexplode th e booster , which in turn explode the burst ing charge at about1- 2 meters height .

~ I S A ~ J N G . Check for boobytraps. Carefully uncover th e to p of th emine and examine i t for evidence of malfunctioning or damage from blast .If the rnine i s damaged, destroy it in place. Insert a pin into th e posit ive safety pin hole f i r s t . Insert the safety pin or wire into the lockin g safety pin hole. Remove a l l t r ip wires. L i f t th e mine from th e groundand remove the fuze.

CHARACTERISl'ICSWeight . . 3. 6 kg (7.9 pounds)Weight of explosive . 0.46 kg (1 pound) of TNTDiameter . 10.3 cm (4.1 inches)Heigllt . 14 cm (5.5 inches)Color . Oel with yellow markings

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58{ety pi!} ( p 0 8 ~ t i V < l l ) - ) { e l l l O v e 1 d 8 ~ Chot Nl-otoan chinh. 'l'ha.o ra saU OLm";.Raleuae pin safety pinC h ~ t an-tOall cheSt t...a

?irin.g pin - 1< im h o a . _ ~ l'erCl.L'lI3!onPeraohute _ :J-: _

Flare caseNg}tn 1;tng hon.

SuspensionDay nhUn

C",

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71

U. S. TlUP FLARE M-48 \'1TH FUZE M6AlCaptured quantit ies of these items have been mistakenly used by th eenemy as antipersonnel mines and boobytraps. The t r ip flare does havea us e in AP mine fields when used as a warning device in th e forwardedges of th e f ield, bu t it should not be used as an AP mine. I ts similar-i ty in appearance to th e US M2A4 bounding AP mine i s probably th e reasonfor i t s misuse by the enemy.FUNCTIONING. The fuze i s actuated by a pressure on the prongs or apul l on th e pull r ing. When this occurs, the cannister i s propelled intoth e a ir to explode a t a height of 90 to 150 meters. The burst releasesa white parachute flare that burns fo r twenty seconds.CAUTION. Although this is not an AP mine, serious burns can be causedby premature detonation.DISARMING. Check for boobytraps. Insert safety pins, disconnect tripwires, and relllOve th e fuze from th e f lare.

CHARACTERISTICSWeight .. 2.3 kg (5.0 pounds)Dia..meter . 14 em (5.5 inches)Height .. 24.8 em (9.75 inches)Color .. OD with yellow markings

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j erCU9siOH primer - Ha t Black p o w d e r - ' l ' h ~ o sw;g( den)

Candle -

' ~ o l d e r I - IX> phn gi1J:

Trigger p i YO tDif1m quaY chot

' l ' ~ i g g e r ~ : p r i : : g 10 so cl:lOt co

co/ . .-~ " ' - - -1 'rriC;i;crrr ip wire s l o tlii phat d?ng

Anohor olip' fhanh gi u

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73U.S. TRIP FLARE M-49 "lTH FUZE Ml2

This f lare i s used as a warning device in forward edges of mine f ie lds ."'hen se t off , th e f lare illuminates th e area so that effective fire can bebrought to bear on the intruders. The VC often mistake these flares fo rhand grenades.FUNCTIONING. A taut wire holds th e tr igger in an armed position (ver

t ical) against th e pressure of th e tr igger spring. An additional pull of.9 to 4.1 kg (2 to 9 pounds), or a release of tension on th e t r ip wire, allowlth e t r igger to release th e lever. The released lever permits th e str ikerto h i t th e percussion cap and to set off th e flare.

DISARMING. Press in on th e lever and insert- a pin. Remove th e t r ipwire, allowing th e t r igger to pivot to th e unarmed position. The flare i snow safe to be moved.

CHARACTERIstICSWeight . . . 0.69 kg (1.5 pounds)Diameter . . . 7.62 em (3.0 inches)Height . . . . . 17.35 em (6.75 inches)Color. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OD with yellow markings

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(

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75U. S. AT MINE M6A2 WITH FUZE M603

This mine consists of a TNT loaded body with an K603 fuze, a booster,and an arming plug. There are two secondary wells which makes th is minevery adaptable to boobytraps. It i s employed by burying just below th eground surface.FUNCTIONING. When th e arming plug i s in th e armed position, a forceof 138 to 184 kg (300 to 400 pounds) on th e pressure plate depresses th ebellevil le spring of the mine, resulting in th e bellevil le spring of thefuze being depressed. This spring snaps into reverse, driving th e firingpi n into the detonator, thus ini t iat ing th e explosive t ra in.DISARMING. Carefully uncover th e concealed mine, examining fo r booby-traps. Examine th e bottom and side secondary wells for boobytrapping.

Replace a l l safety pins in secondary firing devices, i f any. Remove t r ipwires, checking for other boobytraps. Turn th e arming plug to SAFE andremove i t . Remove th e fuze and replace the safety clips . If th e fuze isfrozen destroy th e mine in place or notify explosive ordnance disposalpersonnel.CHARACTERISTICS

Weight ..Weight of explosive . Diameter ..Height ..Color ..

9.2 kg (2 0 pounds)5.5 kg (12 pounds) of T"T33 cm (13.12 inchee)8.25 cm (3.25 iDches)OD with yellow markings

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F, ::

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77U.S ANTITANK MINE M7A2 hlTH FUZE M603

The mine consists of an explosive charge in a quart size, rectangular,l ight s t ee l container intended fo r us e against trocks and lil(ht tanks. I tmay be also used as an antipersonnel mine or as a demolition charge. I tcontains a secondary fuze well and is easil,y boobytrapped. I t i s armed bysliding a moveable pressure plate over th e fuze.FUNCTIONING. A force of 63 to 109 kg (140 to 240 pounds) on th e minepressure plate depresses th e pressure plate of the fuze. The bellevil lespring of th e fuze snaps into reverse and drives the firing pi n into th edetonator, thus init ia. t ing the explosive t ra in.DISAFMING. Carefull,y uncover th e mine and check for boobytraps.Insert a positive safety pin into th e secondary fuze, i f present. Removea l l t r ip wires. Slide th e mine pressure plate from i t s position over th efuze. Remove th e fuze. I f th e fuze i s frozen, destroy th e mine in placeor notify explosive ordnance disposal personnel.

CHARACTERISFICSWeight . . . . . . 2.2 kg (4.88 pounds)Weight of explosive 1.6 kg 0.62 pounds) of tetryto1Length 17.8 em (7 inches)Width . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11.4 em (4.5 inches)Height...................... 6.4 em (2.5 inches)Color . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . OD with yellow markings

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78

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79SOVIEr ANTITANK MINE TM-41

This mine i s made of blued steel metal, often painted white or darkOD. This is a pressure type mine and i s employed slightly beneath th esurface of the ground. I t can remain operat ional for many months when i tis water proofed.

flINCTIONING. A force of 161 kg (350 pounds) pressure on th e l id ofth e mine case wil l activate the pressure type f ir ing devices beneath th epressure cap.DISARMING. Check for boobytraps. Unscrew th e pressure cap. Gentlypul l ou t th e fuze with i t s attached detonator. A blasting cap i s attachedto this fuze.

CHARACTERISTICSWeight 10 5. 5 kg (12 pounds)Weight of explosive. 3.6 kg (8 pounds)Heigtlt . . . . 13.3 cm (5.2 inches)0 0 Diameter . . IO 25.4 cm (1 0 inches)

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80

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81SOVH.T ANTITANK MINE TMB-2

This mine is of th e Soviet standard type of non-metallic antitankmine. I t i s laid separately or together with metallic and wooden mines.I t cannot be detected by a mine detector.CHARACTERIsrICS

Mine Case . . . . . . . . Tar impregnated cardboardColor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Black or BrownHeight 15.3 em (6 inches)Diameter 27.5 cm (10-3/4 inches)Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 kg (15.4 pounds)Weight of exp10sive . . . . . . . . . . . 4.9 kg (11 pounds) of amIIto1

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82

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83CHICOM ANTIFERSONNEL AND ANTITANK MINE Nm.BER 8

Some of these mines were located in Korea, bu t the i r us e was limited.The us e of th is mine in Vietnam should be anticipated.FUNCTIONING. Approximately 138 kg (300 pounds) of pressure on th e cen-te r of th e spider (less pressure i f applied to th e edge of th e spider)causes th e igni ter to function and th e mine to detonate. The fuze of th ismine can also be fired by a pull of 4.6 to 23.0 kg (1 0 to 50 pounds) on th espider. Extreme caution should be exercised i f th e mine i s l i f ted forremoval.DISARMING. Check fo r boobytraps. Cut an y slack t r ip wires tha t ar econnected to th e mine. Inser t the safety bar into th e s lo t on th e side ofth e fuze. I f the bar i s no t available, carefully remove the spider andunscrew th e fuze.CAUTION. I t is extremely hazardous to remove these mines. I t isrecommended tha t whenever possible, they be destroyed in place or ex -plosive ordnance disposal personnel be notified.

CHARACTERISTICSWeight .. 5. 4 kg (12 pounds)Weight of explosive 2. 3 kg (5 pounds)Diameter .. 228.6 mm (9 inches)Height 10 .. 101.6 mm ( 4 inches)

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?" ..54 . '. ,-'~ ~ ' / I ,,,

84

+

/ --- -1---

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85CHICOM ANTITANK MINE

This antitank mine i s supplied to th e VV by th e Chinese Communists.I t 1s similar to a pr e World-War II American mine and is often mistakenfor this mine. The mine ha s stenciled on th e to p "lIJNE HlAl - TNT" inyellow.

FUNCTIONING. Approximately 92 kg (200 pounds) of pressure on th e pres-sure plate wil l cause th e shear pi n in th e fuze to shear off and allow th efir ing pin to strike th e primer, causing detonation of th e mine.DISARMING. Remove a l l soi l from around th e mine prior to defuzing.

Rotate the pressure plate unt i l th e fingers disengage th e mine body.Carefully l i f t th e pressure plate ou t of the way. Remove th e fuze by lif-t ing i t ou t of the fuze well . Replace the safety fork i f present.CHARACTERISnCS

Color....................... on with yellow markingsWeight . . . . . . . . . 5.3 kg (11.5 pounds)Iliameter . . . . . . . . . . . 20.3 cm (8 inches)Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.6 em (3 inches)Fil ler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TNT

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f

!5.5 KG 6.9 KG 9.2 KG

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87VC FIXED D I ~ T I O N A L FRAGMENTATION MINE (00-10)

The IJi-10 mine has characteristics similar to th e US M-18 "Claymore".The IJi-10 is designed as an antipersonnel weapon and may be used in ambushes,against massed infantry attacks, against l ight armored vehicles, and againsthelicopters during the landing of troops. The mine stand is so constructedthat th e mine can be rotated on i t s axis and aimed in the direction of thetarget .FUNCTIONING. The 00-10 i s placed and aimed in the direction of th e target .

An elect r ical detonator i s located in th e fuze well in th e front or rear centerof th e mine. Wires from the detonator are connected to a battery pack or handheld generator located a safe distance from th e mine. Although th e lli-10 isdesigned fo r electr ical operation, it would be very simple to incorporate amechanical fuze.

DISARMING. Cut th e elect r ical leads, one a t a time, approximately 15 cm(6 inches) from the mine body. Remove th e detonator.CHARACTERISTICS

Diameter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 , 24.1, 28.6 cm (7 , 9,11.75 inches)Weight . . . . . . . . 5.5, 6.9, 9. 2 kg (12, 15, 20 pounds)Weight of explosive 1.8 , 2.8, 3.7 kg (4, 6, 8 pounds)Filler..................... TNTRange 150-200 metersOperation. '" ............. Electrical

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88

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VC ANTIPERSONNEL MINEThis type of mine is constructed of a sheet metal container similarto a beer can and employs a standard percussion grenade fuze. The fuzeusual1 contains no delay.FUNCTIONING. A t r ip wire is attached to th e pull ring on th e grenadefuze. When the pull pin attached to th e pul l ring is removed, th e st r ikermoves downward, hitt ing th e primer, resulting in th e detonation of th e mine.DISARMING. No attempt should be made to disarm this mine due to th epossibil i ty of a hang f ire. Destroy th e mine in place or notify explosive

ordnance disposal personnel.CHARACTERISrICS

Color . . . . . . . . . ." Gray or GreenWeight . 0. 9 kg (2 pounds)Height . . . . . . . . . 15.4 cm (6 inches)Diameter . . . . . 5-7.7 cm (2-3 inches)Filler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TNTConstruction . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sheet metal

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(

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91VC SKYHORSE

This is an improvised antipersonnel weapon, made from a piece of 5.1 cm(2 inch) pipe 32-96 cm (1 to 3 feet) long and closed at one end. An explosivecharge i s placed in th e barrel followed by an assortment of art ic les such asrocks, nai ls , glass, or barbed wire, af ter which th e end of th e pipe issealed with wax and emplaced fo r f ir ing. I t ha s a simple mousetrap actuatoron th e exterior which may be f ired with a lanyard or a t r ip wire. Thisweapon may be employed to cover any t r a i l , road, or other route troops maytake. It is rigged so th e VC can pul l a lanyard or, more commonly, witha t r ip wire so th e victim actuates i t himself.FUNCTIONING. When th e retainer i s pulled, th e actuator str iker hitsth e detonator which explodes.DISARMING. When disarming this device, t ie th e actuator arm down withtape or wire. Place a piece of tape over th e detonator to prevent accidentalf i r ing. Always check for boobytraps.

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92

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93VC MINE llU'ROVlSED FROM SHELL CASE

A 75-105mm cartridge case fi l led with explosive and one stick grenadefor the primary detonator device comprise this improvi sed mine. Fuzewells have also been provided on th e side of th e shell casing; therefore,th e imProvised mine can be detonated by using any of th e fuzes discussed inthis booklet. The employment of these mines in most cases is againstpersonnel.

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95VC "TOE POPPER" MINE

These mines are fabricated of cartridge cases or pieces of pipe ofvarious sizes , loaded with "homemade" primers and a charge of blackpowder. When th e victim steps on th e mine th e igniter explodes th e chargeand th e "buckshot" project i les ar e expelled with considerable force.

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96MIN N91 HO A N6 t H ~ M BONG HO

( L O ~ I THUNG DAU 5GALLONS N ~ N G 25 Kf)

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97VC 5 GALLON OIL CAN TYPE MINE

This i s a locally marmfactured mine using a 5 gallon o il can as th eexplosive container. The mine i s usually employed with a watch or clockas th e timing device.FUNCTIONING. Two watches connected in series with a battery pack of4. 5 volts or larger capacity an d to two elect r ical detonators, serve asth e f ir ing device. The mirmte and second hands of both watches have beencut short an d small holes dr i l led through th e crystals at th e number 12 .Brass screws ar e inserted in th e dril led holes and wires ar e connected tothem and to th e battery. other wires run from the battery to th e detonators.

The ci rcui t i s completed by attaching a third set of wires to th e watchcases and to the detonators. The watches ar e wound an d set to the selectedtime. When th e hour hands touch th e brass screws inserted through the cry-stals , the ci rcui ts ar e completed between th e batteries and th e elect r icaldetonators. The 4.5 volts of the battery i s applied to th e bridge wires ofth e detonators, resulting in detonation of th e mine.

DISARMING. Cut th e wires, one at a time between th e batteries an d th ewatches, or between th e watches and th e elect r ical detonators. Remove th ebatteries an d th e timing device. Destroy the mine or notify explosive ord-nance disposal personnel.CHARACTERIsrlcs

Color .. aD or BlackType .. HomemadeOperation ElectricalWeight .. 10 kg (22 pounds)Filler .. TNT

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"zO ',0 fa0"s

Uz-16 0-zi;;

OU

98

'"...

..

Ii!

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99VC CYUNDRICAL CASf IRON FRAGMENI'ATION MINE

This mine i s constructed of cast iron and is filled with cast TNT.The mine i s similar to a stick grenade. I t employs a fr iction igniterwith a 4 second delay as th e detonator device.FUNCTIONING. A t r ip wire i s attached to the pull wire of the fr ictionigni ter . Pressure applied to th e t r ip wire will extract th e pull wirethrough a match compound, igniting the delay element. Two to four secondsaf ter extraction of th e pul l wire th e mine will detonate.DISARMING. If the pul l wire i s present, the mine i s safe. If th e

pul l wire i s missing, th e mine should be considered as a dud and treatedaccordingly.CHARACTERISfICS

Color . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gray or BlackWeight . 1 kg (2.2 pounds)Di.ameter ' 5.1 cm (2 inches)Filler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TNTOperation . . . . . . . . . . . . Friction pull

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- ---- - - - - -

100

-1- : _ . ~ I , .,50

. _ - - ~

1150 250 i.'7 0

4.55 0

- . ~ - ~ 1-., ,?1lI, - - - - M

50 0550

-

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101VC CYUNDRICAL CEMENT FRAGMENTATION MINE

This locally manufactured cylindrical mine i s constructed of cement.I t incorporates a carrying handle fabricated of a 5. 1 cm (2 inch) piece ofpipe. The pipe also serves as th e housing for th e detonator.FUNCTIONING. The mine i s fuzed with an elect r ical detonator. I t i susually fired remotely from a battery pack or hand held generator.DISARMING. Cut th e elect r ical leads, one at a time, approximately15 em (6 inches) from th e body. Remove th e detonators by l i f t ing fromth e fuze wells. :x l NOT force th e detonators.

CHARACTERISfICSColor . GrayWeight .. 5.6 kg (1.3 pounds)lA!:ngth .. 25.4 cm (10 inches)Height .. 12.7 cm (5 inches)Filler " .. TNTConstruction Iron pipe and cement

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102240

220

MIE'NG VAN TRENTOP WOODEN PLATE

10

MIENG VAN OllOI o..

....

BOnON\.WOODEN PLATE260

.30

120

_ _ ~ .l- --- '======= = = = s=E ==i1--L:==- c=::t ~ c : = I '==' _: . , 0

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103VC CENEl,T "TUFtTLE" MINE

This is a locally manufactured mine with a body constructed of cement.The mine i s usually employed as a demolition charge by being attached to along pole and placed against bUildings and fortifications.FUNCTIONING. The mine is fuzed both electrically and mechanically.A hand grenade friction igniter is used as th e non-electrical device.DISARMING. Cut th e electrical leads, one at a time, approximotely15 cm (6 inches) from th e mine body. Remove th e fuze by lifting the detonator out of th e fuze well. I f non-electrical fuzing has been used, remove

th e igniter, being careful not to disturb the friction pull ring. :Xl NOTattempt to remove either type of fuzing i f there ar e signs of corrosionaround th e fuze or signs of tampering. ;)estroy th e mine in place or notifyexplosive ordnance disposal personnel.CHARACTERISTICS

Color. """. . """. . . . . . . """. GrayWeight" " " " ". " 5.6 kg (13 pounds)Length." " " 22.9 cm (9 inches)Diameter. ". " " "" . " . . " 12.7 cm (5 inches)Filler" " " . TN"TConstruction . . Cement

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104222PH61 HiNH

PERSPECTIVE170gO

..!!!...+

I

,2J 0 00 00 00 0

HUU OleNIl:IGHTVIEW

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105VC SHEET METAL "TURTLE" MINE

This "Turtle" mine i s constructed of four separate pieces of sheetmetal riveted together a t th e seams and coated with a waterproofing com-pound. A detonator well i s located in the end of th e mine.FUNCTIONING. This mine i s f ired both electr ica l ly and mechanically.The electr ica l detonator i s placed in th e fuze well and sealed in th e waxor t a r . The current for th e detonator i s supplied by a battery pack orhand held generator. The mechanical device i s usually a pull releasedevice operated remotely with a pull or t r ip wire.DISARMING. Cut th e two electrical leads, one a t a time, approximately15 cm (6 inches) from th e mine body. Remove th e detonator, i f possible.I f a mechanical f ir ing device is employed, replace the safety pin pr ior tocutting any wires. Remove th e firing device, i f possible. If th e mechan-

i ca l firing device or electr ica l device cannot be removeu safely, DO NOTtransport or disturb th e mine. Destroy th e mine in place or notifyexplosive ordnance disposal personnel.CHARACTERISl'ICS

Color .. BlackWeight .. 9.2 kg (20 pounds)Fil ler .. Melinite or HJTWeight or explosive 3.2-3.7 kg (7-8 pounds)Height .. 12.7-15.4 cm (5-6 inches)

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106

A I- ' ,

I~ ,uIT

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107VC CYLINDRICAL MINE

This locally manufactured mine is constructed of either sheet metal orshipping containers fo r artillery and mortar projectiles. The mine weightand size varies according to the type container used. The mine is usuallyfired electrically.F1JNCTIONING. This mine is fired electrically from a remote position.

An electrical detonator is placed in th e end of the container and coveredwith a water proofing compound. Current fo r detonation of th e mine issupplied by a battery pack or a hand generator.DISARMING. Cut th e electrical leads, one at a time, approximately15 cm (6 inches) from th e mine body. Remove th e detonator, i f possible.

DO NOT force th e detonator when removing.CHARACTERISTICS

Color .. VariesLength .. VariesOperation . . . . . . . . . Filler ..

ElectricalAny of th e military explosives,Potassium Chlorate, or TNT

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108

I KHIENGHANDLE (TRANAYQUA SPORTATlONj

, .' - DETONATORGOINOS2LY 0 0 101 0

I I I ,b ------'-I I I I , II I I II 1 I II I I II I I: : ; I I , II 1 I JI . L,-----Huoe NOMO' , ,BOOSTER I ,, ,THUOCN6 I ,MAIN CHARGE I ,:------.,

-'- - -- 0QUAlxACHTADYlE (CARRYING) o 0 o o 0 0 0 0HAN \

---I

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109LARGE VC WATER MINE

The water mine is composed of two parts, th e explosives chamber andth e f lo ta t ion chamber, separated by a sheet metal part i t ion . The watermine is employed against shipping in r ivers and canals. The f lotationchamber bui l t into th e mine serves to keep th e mine off th e bottom andsuspended in midstream. The depth of th e mine is control led by a seriesof ropes from th e shore. The mine is constructed of medium weight sheetmetal with r iveted seams. All seams ar e covered with a waterproofingcompound.FUNCTIONING. The mine i s f i red electr ica l ly from th e shore using a

ser ies of batter ies or a hand generator. With th e approach of a ship th emine is adjusted remotely to th e proper depth to give the optill1Lllll effectfrom th e blast .DISARMING. Cut a l l elect r ical leads leading to th e mine, one at at ime, approximately 15 em (6 inches) from th e mine.

CHARACTERIsrrcsWeight .. 38.2 kg (83 pounds)Diameter .. 43.7 cm (17 inches)Height .. 63 em (25 inches)Filler .. TNrWeight of Fi l le r . . . . 18.8 kg (4 1 pounds)

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110

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111S1iiALL VC WATER VilNE

This locally manufactured water mine is of a type constructed of sheetmetal, rolled into a short conical shape, and fastened with r ivets .FUNCTIONING. The mine is placed in th e channel of the r iver or streamand adjusted in height according to th e traveling depth of ships in thatpart icular body of water. The mine i s fuzed electr ical ly and detonated bymeans of a battery pack.DISARMING. Cut a l l elect r ical leads leading to th e mine, one at at ime, approximately 15 cm (6 inches) from th e mine. !Xl NOT ATTEMPT TO

REMOVE THE BOOsrER CAP OR IlEl'ONATORS FROM THE HlNE.CHARACTERISl'ICS

Weight . . . . . 12.4 kg (27 pounds)0 Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 cm (12 inches)Di.ameter . . . . . . . 26.7 cm (11 inches)Filler . TNrWeight of explosive 6. 9 kg (15 pounds)

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112

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113VC NON-ELEX;TRICAL SHAPED CHARGE MINE

This mine is constructed of sheet metal and employs a sheet metalcone fo r shaped charge effect. The mine is employed with two fr ic t ionpull igniters incorporating a nine second delay. The mine is usuallyemployed as a demolition device by VC saboteurs.FUNCTIONING. The mine is placed at th e target , and th e two pullwires on th e fuze ar e extracted. This action ini t ia tes th e 9 seconddelay powder t rain. The delay train flashes to th e detonator, causingdetonation of th e mine.DISARMING. No attempt should be made to disann this mine, as booby-traps have been found to be incorporated in th e fuzing mechanism. Destroyth e mine in place or notify explosive ordnance disposal personnel.

CHARACTERISTICSColor .. VariesI..engthDiameter at largeWeight

.st point .20.3 cm (8 inches)22.9 cm (9 inches)6.9 kg (15 pounds)Filler .. TNT or homemade explosiveswhich are very sensitive.Weight of Explosive. 3.7-6.9 kg (9 pounds)

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114

TI

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115VC IMPROVISED ANTU ERSQNNEL AND ANTITANK MINE

This type of mine is improvised from dud art i l lery and mortar pro-ject i les . Depending on i t s size and explosive f i l ler , i t i s effectiveagainst both armored vehicles and personnel. This mine i s usuallyemployed along th e sides of roads and t ra i l s and detonated remotelT.FUNCTIONING. The projectile fuze is removed am a hole i s drilledinto th e explosive to accept an electr ical detonator. The mine is det-onated remotely by an electr ical charge from a battery pack or hand heldgenerator.DISARl>llNG. Cut th e electr ical leads to the detonator, one at a time,approximatelT 15 cm (6 inches) from th e projectile or mine. This mineshould be destroyed in place or explosive ordnance disposal personnelshould be notified.

CHARACTERISfICSColorWeightF:Jcplosive

..

..

..

VariesVariesTNT or any type of militaryexplosive may be found inth e se types of improvisedmines.

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2/o

oo

,,o ',

,,

116

.; 90

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117VC ELECTRICAL ANTIVEHIClJLAR SHAPED CHARGE MINE

This short , pyramidal shaped charge is employed against armored vehicles and reinforced for t i f ica t ions . I t i s constructed of sheet metal andfastened at th e seams by r ivets or welding.FUNCTIONING. This mine is usually detonated electr ica l ly from an am-bush position.DISARMING. Cut th e elect r ical leads leading into th e fuze of th e mine,one a t a time, approximately 15 cm (6 inches) from th e fuze. In case of amechanical fuze, replace th e safety pin. If the type of fuze cannot be de

termined destroy the mine in place or notify explosive ordnance disposalpersonnel.CHARACTERISfICS

Color .. BlackWeight .. 7.8 kg (17-18 pounds)DiaJD.eter .. 20.3-25.4 cm (8-10 inches):Length .. 20.3-25.4 cm (8-10 inches)Filler .. TNTWeight of explosive 5. 1 kg (1 1 pounds)

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118

o.. . 0'" ..

/70

!Ill TO

o o o o

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119VC SHORT CONE SHAfED CHARGE JUNE

This shaped mine i s employed as a general purpose demolition charge.The mine i s constructed of heavy sheet metal, an d a l l seams ar e rivetedor welded. A dual detonator system i s employed fo r re l iabi l i ty.FUNCTIONING. The mine is detonated ei ther electrically or with amechanical device. Fo r elec tr ica l f i r ing , th e current i s supplied by abattery pack or a hand held generator (blasting machine). The mechanicaldevice i s of th e pull friction device or pressure type.DISARMING. Cut a l l elec tr ica l leads leading to th e mine, one at atime, approximately 15 em (6 inches) from th e mine. IX) NOT A T T ~ ; I T TO

RIOVE THE BOOSTER CAP OR DEl'ONATORS FROM THE MINE. When a mechanicaldevice i s ut i l ized, replace the safety pin or safety wire before removingthe mine.CHARACTERISTICS

Color. t It It 0 10 10 It ......... BlackOverall Weight 12.4 kg (27 pounds)Height . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 0 25.4 cm (10 inches)Diameter . . t It I t I t 10 26.7 cm (11 inches)Fil ler. 0 It It t It 10 TNTWeight of explosive 6. 9 kg (15 pounds)Construction . . . . . . . Heavy sheet metal

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..oC'l

120CHINH DIENFRONlVIEW

NAP 9A.YLO NGOI NO 40FUZE WELL

5;"1 TRON 08THUaNG 91@:N

TOP VIEW

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121VC CAST IRON FRAGMENTATION ANTITANK MINE

This egg shaped mine is constructed of cast i ron with serrations oni t s outer surface. The mine incorporates a handle fo r carrying. The deton-ator well is located in th e end.

FUNCTIONING. The mine is fuzed with an electr ica l detcnator and i scontrol led remotely. Current for the detonator is supplied by a batterypack or hand held generator.DISARMING. Cut th e elect r ical detonator leads, one at a t ime, approx-imately 15 cm (6 inches) from th e mine. Remove the detonators i f possible.

CHARACTERISnCSColor " .. GrayWeight . 5. 5 kg (12 pounds)Length .. 22.9 cm (9 inches)Diameter . 12.7 cm (5 inches)Fil ler .. Mellnite or TNTOperation " .. Electrical

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122

'0

290

QUAI XACHCARRYING ROPEKHOEN sArLIFTING EYE

DAY 9 1 ~ N DETONATOR LEAD

--co----- - - ~ O .-

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123VC l1'lOUND" SHAPED KINE

This mine is constructed of cement and is similar to other minescovered in this booklet.FUNCTIONING. The mine is fuzed electrically and incorporates onedetonator well encased in an iron pipe. The pipe is located in th e endof the mine housing. The detonator is placed in th e pipe fuze well and issealed with a waterproofing compound. The mine is fired by means of abattery pack or hand held generator.DISARHING. Cut th e two electrical leads, one at a time, approximately15 cm (6 inches) from th e body of th e mine. Remove the detonator, i f pos-sible. Do not force th e detonator out of th e fuze well.

CHARACTER] srICSColor "" .. GrayWeight .. 6 kg (13 pounds)Length .. 34.9 cm (13 3/4 inches)Di.ameter .. 14 cm (5k inches)Filler .. TNTOperation .. Electrical

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124

Kip N()t lis DETONATOR

/. 4'0 II j

D A Y & I ~ N DETONATOR LEAD

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125VC ROUND V O W ~ l E VJ1NE

This mine is constructed of sheet metal with a ll seams welded.FUNCTIONING. The mine i s fuzed electr icalq and employs twodetonators located in th e ends of the mine. The mine is fired bymeans of a battery pack or hand held generator.DISARMING. Cut the leads to th e detonators, one at a time, 15 cm(6 inches) from the mine. Remove th e detonator, i f possible. O t h e ~ ~ s e , destroy th e mine in place or notify explosive ordnance disposal personnel.

CHARACTERISTICSColor . ;)ark Green:Length . . . . . . . . . . 43 cm (17 inches)Di.ameter . . . . . . . . . . . . 11.5 cm (5 inches)Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ElectricalOverall w