Munitions for Standoff Mine Neutralization

We propose to develop a shaped-charge warhead for a standoff mine-neutralization system. The mine will be neutralized by the shaped-charge jet projected by the warhead, which will initiate the mine's explosive fill in a detonation or deflagration reactionto rapidly destroy its integrity. The ability of the jet, projected by only a small-diameter warhead, to consistently initiate such a reaction will be aided by several previously demonstrated technologies. Warheads will be designed and fabricated, thendelivered to the Government for testing. Mine neutralization technology has obvious military benefits however the technology can readily be adapted for use in humanitarian demining efforts throughout the world. In humanitarian demining operations, a largepercentage of the mines have been dispersed in populated areas near critical areas such as roads, schools, hospitals, cultural centers, etc. The neutralization technologies must be adapted in order to prevent or limit high order detonations in those caseswhere collateral damage is to be avoided. In addition, any adaptation of the technology must be developed for indigenous personnel where simplicity of use and limitation of nefarious applications are paramount.