Destructive Techniques

Generally, the destructive techniques discussed here are applicable to unconventional warfare. In a counterinsurgency environment where Special Forces detachments are advising paramilitary and local indigenous forces in construction projects and establishment of defensive positions, the use of conventional demolitions may be employed and may be the only requirement for effective road building, land clearing, airlanding construction and obstacle removal projects. Logistical procedures normally permit the extensive resupply and use of conventional demolitions. However, when committed into an operational environment both unconventional warfare and counterinsurgency operations involving training and directing indigenous forces in combat operations. Special Forces personnel will find that the lack of logistical support air delivery capability, and mobility may require using demolitions on a limited scale. The amount of demolitions that may be carried for operational use will result in Special Forces personnel improvising destructive charges and employing them to gel maximum results from a minimum amount of material.