Countering IEDs and Explosive Hazards

Since the Countermine Task Force was formed in 2001 (by the direction of the Commanding General, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command [TRADOC]), the U.S. Army Engineer School has been instrumental in developing the skills and tools needed to enable mobility through urban and complex terrain. This was accomplished while negating explosive hazards (EH) such as mines, booby traps, unexploded ordnance (UXO), and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). This article describes current initiatives and contains an overview of the collaborative agencies working to combat this threat. The Countermine/Counter Booby Trap Center, which was created in January 2002, changed its name to the Counter Explosive Hazards Center (CEHC) in April 2004. The CEHC was formally recognized and approved by Headquarters, Department of the Army, on 18 November 2004 to function as the U.S. Army integrator for all countermeasures involving EH (including mines, IEDs, and other EH that threaten U.S. and allied forces). A key element is the prediction, detection, avoidance, and neutralization of EH, so commanders can maneuver unencumbered through urban and complex terrain. The CEHC provides expertise not provided elsewhere in the Army's institutional training base. Additionally, the CEHC bridges the gap between emerging warfighter requirements and institutionalized training. Based on comments and mission analysis from the field, the CEHC develops new or improved capabilities, as well as the requisite tools to equip our soldiers, to counter EH on the battlefield.
Published in Engineer: The Professional Bulletin of Army Engineers, v35, p32-35, Jan-Mar 2005. PB 5-05-1.