Gap in tree line
Image 71. A VP created by a possible crossing point and gap in the tree line
INTENT
When the conflict was active in the area, the NSAG sought to reduce the freedom of movement of the state armed group operating out of the patrol base.
CAPABILITY
The NSAG had access to command IEDs and VOIEDs. Command IEDs predominantly used directional fragmentation charges to target unarmoured vehicles or police foot patrols setting patterns on routes.
The NSAG’s predominant VOIED switches were low metal content, carbon rod or bare wire pressure plates located directly above a plastic-cased main charge containing 3–5 kg of HME to target people on foot. The battery was normally located 3–4 m from the pressure plate / main charge.
OPPORTUNITY
The state armed group predominantly operated on foot and tried to avoid setting patterns. They did not follow tracks or paths unless absolutely necessary. If it was necessary to cross through a VP, then that VP would be searched using a metal detector. The tree line adjacent to the ditch restricted the number of crossing points and also made it difficult to search effectively.
THREAT SUMMARY
Low metal content PPIEDs are probably located in the gaps in the tree line which could have been used by the state armed group as crossing points. The main charge is probably 3–5 kg of HME in a plastic container located directly underneath the pressure plate. The batteries have probably been placed 2–3 m away from the anticipated direction of approach to make detection with a metal detector problematic.
Technical IED capabilities
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