Front line troops in Afghanistan have been using a new counter-mine system to help save lives by dealing with the threats posed by mines and other buried ordnance.
The Vallon VMH3CS detector has been procured and delivered to theatre by Manoeuvre Support Integrated Project Team (IPT), (part of the Battlefield Infrastructure and Engineering Group), one of the eight IPT’s and Groups who are participating in DVD this year. “The early introduction into service of the Dismounted Counter Mine Capability represents a considerable amount of work and cooperation between Manoeuvre Support IPT and Ultra Electronics,” explains Brigadier Andy Cowling, Battlefield Infrastructure and Engineering Group leader. “Full credit goes to them for delivering a valuable piece of equipment which enhances our capability considerably.” The new system provides troops with the ability to detect minimum metal mines in very challenging soil conditions. Such is the success of the new equipment that doctrine has been changed to lead with the new detector, as opposed to the previous method of leading with a prodder, which greatly improves the rate of advance. “The new high-quality equipment delivers an excellent level of assurance for troops,” says Major Richard Walker, commanding officer of 69 Gurkha Field Squadron in Afghanistan. “There is no doubt it is slightly more complicated to use than EBEX, but in turn this delivers a step change in capability. It has proved to be very effective on operations and the squadron has a huge level of confidence in it.” The equipment was delivered by Ultra Electronics Command and Control Systems. It comprises of the Vallon detector, improved marking equipment and enhancements to the level of protection for the operator in the event of a mine explosion. There is also a package of training which includes kits for users to ensure their skill levels are maintained while in their unit. |
