FM 4-30.

51 (FM 21-16)
MCRP 3-17.2A

UNEXPLODED ORDNANCE (UXO)

PROCEDURES

JULY 2006

HEADQUARTERS,
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTON: Distribution authorized to US Government agencies only to protect

technical or operational information from automatic dissemination under the International Exchange Program or
by other means. This protection applies to publications required solely for official use and to those containing
valuable technical or operational information. This determination was made March 2006. Other requests for this
doctrine will be referred to Directorate, Concept and Doctrine, ATTN: ATCL-FC-D, 3801 A Avenue, Fort Lee, VA
23801.
DESTRUCTON NOTICE: Destroy by any method that will prevent disclosure of contents or reconstruction of
the document.

This publication is available at

Army Knowledge Online (www.us.army.mil) and
General Dennis J. Reimer Training and Doctrine
Digital Library at (www.train.army.mil).

*FM 4-30.51 (FM 21-16)

MCRP 3-17.2A
Field Manual
No. 4-30.51 (21-16)
MCRP 3-17.2A

Headquarters
Department of the Army
Washington, DC, 13 July 2006
Marine Corps Combat Development Command
Quantico, Virginia

UNEXPLODED ORDNANCE (UXO)

PROCEDURES
Contents
Page

PREFACE.............................................................................................................vii
PURPOSE ............................................................................................................ vii
Scope.................................................................................................................... vii
Training Strategy ................................................................................................. viii
User Information .................................................................................................. viii
Chapter 1

The Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Hazard ..................................................... 1-1

UXO Locations and Threats ............................................................................... 1-1
General Safety Guidelines.................................................................................. 1-1

Chapter 2

Recognize UXO................................................................................................. 2-1

Dropped Ordnance ............................................................................................. 2-1
Stabilizing Devices ............................................................................................. 2-3
Dispensers.......................................................................................................... 2-5
Submunitions...................................................................................................... 2-6
Projected Ordnance.......................................................................................... 2-10
Projectiles ......................................................................................................... 2-10
Depleted Uranium (DU) .................................................................................... 2-12
Mortars.............................................................................................................. 2-14
Rockets............................................................................................................. 2-14
Guided Missiles ................................................................................................ 2-16

DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTON: Distribution authorized to US Government agencies only to protect technical or

operational information from automatic dissemination under the International Exchange Program or by other
means. This protection applies to publications required solely for official use and to those containing valuable
technical or operational information. This determination was made March 2006. Other requests for this doctrine
will be referred to Directorate, Concept and Doctrine, ATTN: ATCL-FC-D, 3801 A Avenue, Fort Lee, VA 23801
DESTRUCTION NOTICE: Destroy by any method that will prevent disclosure of contents or
reconstruction of the document.
*This publication supersedes FM 21-16/FMFM 13-8-1, 30 August 1994.
i

Contents

Rifle Grenades ..................................................................................................2-17

Thrown Ordnance .............................................................................................2-18
Placed Ordnance ..............................................................................................2-21
Chapter 3

Take Immediate Action.....................................................................................3-1

Protective Measures ...........................................................................................3-2
Mark UXO ...........................................................................................................3-6

Chapter 4

Report the UXO Hazard ....................................................................................4-1

EXPLOSIVE HAZARDS SPOT REPORT...........................................................4-1
Priority Basis .......................................................................................................4-2
Prioritizing the Spot Report .................................................................................4-2

Chapter 5

Self-Extraction from UXO Hazards..................................................................5-1

Detection .............................................................................................................5-1
Immediate Actions...............................................................................................5-1
Situational Assessment.......................................................................................5-2
Breaching Techniques ........................................................................................5-2
UXO Consideration for Self Evacuation..............................................................5-3
Engineer Equipment (Heavy-Force Breaching) ..................................................5-3
Explosive Charges ..............................................................................................5-3

Chapter 6

UXO Response to the Battlefield.....................................................................6-1

Capabilities..........................................................................................................6-1
Support Requirements ........................................................................................6-1
Other Supporting Organizations .........................................................................6-1
Army Explosive Ordnance Clearance Agent (EOCA).........................................6-1
Army EOCA Limitations ......................................................................................6-2

Appendix A

Ammunition Color Codes................................................................................ A-1

Appendix B

Dropped Ordnance Identification And Net Explosive Weight (NEW) ......... B-1
Bombs ................................................................................................................ B-1

Appendix C

Projected Ordnance Identification and Net Explosive Weight (NEW) ........ C-1
Projectiles........................................................................................................... C-1
Mortars .............................................................................................................. C-6
Rockets .............................................................................................................. C-8
Guided Missiles................................................................................................ C-10
Rifle Grenades ................................................................................................. C-12

Appendix D

Thrown Ordnance Identification and Net Explosive Weight (NEW)............ D-1

Fragmentation Grenades .................................................................................. D-1
Antitank Grenades ............................................................................................. D-2
Smoke Grenades ............................................................................................... D-2
Illumination Grenades ........................................................................................ D-3

Appendix E

Placed Ordnance Identification And Net Explosive Weight (NEW) ............ E-1
Antipersonnel Mines........................................................................................... E-1
Antitank Mines.................................................................................................... E-2
Glossary............................................................................................... Glossary-1
REFERENCES.................................................................................. References-1
Index........................................................................................................... Index-1

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Figures
Figure 2-1. General-purpose bombs ...................................................................................... 2-2
Figure 2-2. Soviet-style, general-purpose bombs .................................................................. 2-2
Figure 2-3. US chemical bombs ............................................................................................. 2-2
Figure 2-4. Arming vane assemblies...................................................................................... 2-3
Figure 2-5. Conical- and box-fin assemblies .......................................................................... 2-4
Figure 2-6. Retarding-fin assembly (opens after release)...................................................... 2-4
Figure 2-7. Parachute assembly............................................................................................. 2-4
Figure 2-8. Soviet-style fin assemblies................................................................................... 2-5
Figure 2-9. Dispenser (cutaway section)................................................................................ 2-5
Figure 2-10. Dropped dispensers ........................................................................................... 2-6
Figure 2-11. Attached dispensers .......................................................................................... 2-6
Figure 2-12. AP ball-type submunitions ................................................................................. 2-7
Figure 2-13. AP pressure-activated submunition ................................................................... 2-7
Figure 2-14. AP bounding-fragmentation submunition........................................................... 2-7
Figure 2-15. AP area-denial submunitions (FASCAM) .......................................................... 2-7
Figure 2-16. DP submunition.................................................................................................. 2-8
Figure 2-17. AMAT/AT parachute-stabilized submunitions.................................................... 2-8
Figure 2-18. AMAT/AT fin-stabilized submunitions ................................................................ 2-9
Figure 2-19. AT area-denial submunitions (FASCAM)........................................................... 2-9
Figure 2-20. Nose-fuzed projectiles .....................................................................................2-10
Figure 2-21. Base-fuzed projectile .......................................................................................2-11
Figure 2-22. Spin-stabilized projectiles ................................................................................2-11
Figure 2-23. Fin-stabilized projectiles...................................................................................2-11
Figure 2-24. Line Drawing of a DU Projectile .......................................................................2-13
Figure 2-25. DU UXO ...........................................................................................................2-13
Figure 2-26. Fin-stabilized mortars.......................................................................................2-14
Figure 2-27. Spin-stabilized mortars ....................................................................................2-14
Figure 2-28. Rockets ............................................................................................................2-15
Figure 2-29. Parts of a rocket ...............................................................................................2-15
Figure 2-30. Spin-stabilized rocket.......................................................................................2-16
Figure 2-31. AT guided missiles ...........................................................................................2-16
Figure 2-32. PATRIOT and Sparrow guided missiles ..........................................................2-17
Figure 2-33. AP rifle grenades..............................................................................................2-17
Figure 2-34. AT rifle grenades..............................................................................................2-17
Figure 2-35. Parts of a grenade............................................................................................2-18
Figure 2-36. Fragmentation grenades..................................................................................2-19
Figure 2-37. Offensive grenade............................................................................................2-19
Figure 2-38. AT grenades.....................................................................................................2-20

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Contents

Figure 2-39. Smoke grenades ............................................................................................. 2-20

Figure 2-40. US illumination grenade .................................................................................. 2-20
Figure 2-41. AP pressure-fuzed mines ................................................................................ 2-21
Figure 2-42. AP trip wire-fuzed mines.................................................................................. 2-22
Figure 2-43. AT pressure-fuzed mines ................................................................................ 2-22
Figure 2-44. AT tilt-rod fuzed mines..................................................................................... 2-23
Figure 3-1. Decision chart...................................................................................................... 3-1
Figure 3-2. Evacuation distances........................................................................................... 3-2
Figure 3-3. Placement distance for barricade ........................................................................ 3-3
Figure 3-4. Placement of wall barricade ................................................................................ 3-4
Figure 3-5. Interlocking sandbags.......................................................................................... 3-4
Figure 3-6. Complete circular placement of barricade........................................................... 3-5
Figure 3-7. Semicircular placement of barricade ................................................................... 3-5
Figure 3-8. Wall barricade placement .................................................................................... 3-6
Figure 3-9. Standard UXO marker ......................................................................................... 3-6
Figure 3-10. Marking a UXO with standard marker ............................................................... 3-7
Figure 3-11. Marking UXO with alternate type of material..................................................... 3-7
Figure 4-1. Explosive Hazard Spot Report ............................................................................ 4-2
Figure 5-1. Dismounted direct-fire procedure ........................................................................ 5-5
Figure 5-2. Light-vehicle mounted direct-fire procedure ........................................................ 5-5
Figure B-1. Bomb, general purpose, 2,000 pound NEW: 1,000 pounds ............................. B-1
Figure B-2. Bomb, general purpose 500 kilogram NEW: 550 pounds................................. B-1
Figure B-3. Bomb general purpose 250 pound NEW: 125 pounds ..................................... B-2
Figure B-4. Bomb general purpose 100 kilogram NEW: 110 pounds.................................. B-2
Figure B-5. Submunition dispenser CBU-87/B

NEW: Not Applicable ............................. B-2

Figure B-6. AP/AMAT submunitions NEW: less than 0.5 pounds per item ......................... B-3
Figure B-7. AP/AMAT submunitions (conventional) NEW: less than 7 pounds per
item ..................................................................................................................... B-3
Figure B-8. AMAT/AT submunitions (conventional) NEW: Less than 2 pounds per
item ..................................................................................................................... B-4
Figure B-9. Soviet style AMAT/AT submunitions (conventional) NEW: less than
2 pounds per item............................................................................................... B-5
Figure B-10. Area denial submunitions: ADAM (left), RAAMS (middle) and BLU-54/B
(right) NEW: RAAMS 2 pounds, ADM and BLU-54/B less than 0.5
pounds ................................................................................................................ B-5
Figure B-11. Area denial submunitions: M74 (left, BLU-91/B Gator (right) and AT-2
(rear) NEW: 2 pounds per item ........................................................................ B-6
Figure C-1. Spin stabilized projectiles, 105 millimeter and smaller NEW: less than
8 pounds per item...............................................................................................C-1
Figure C-2. Spin stabilized projectiles 130 millimeter NEW: less than 20 pounds per
item .....................................................................................................................C-2
Figure C-3. Spin stabilized projectiles 105 millimeter high explosive plastic (HEP)
(top) and 100 millimeter armor piercing (AP) (bottom) NEW: less than

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Contents

15 pounds for the 105 millimeter projectile and 2 pounds for the
100 millimeter projectile ..................................................................................... C-2
Figure C-4. Spin stabilized projectiles 180 millimeter (left) and 155 millimeter (right)
NEW: less than 20 pounds per item ................................................................. C-3
Figure C-5. Spin stabilized projectile 8 inch HE NEW: less than 40 pounds ....................... C-3
Figure C-6. Spin stabilized projectile 165 millimeter HEP NEW: less than 35 pounds ........ C-4
Figure C-7. Fin stabilized projectiles 90 millimeter (bottom) and 120 millimeter high
explosive antitank (HEAT) (top) NEW: less than 5 pounds per item ................ C-4
Figure C-8. Fin stabilized projectiles NEW: less than 5 pounds per item ............................ C-5
Figure C-9. Folding fin stabilized HEAT projectiles NEW: less than 5 pounds per item ...... C-5
Figure C-10. Fin stabilized mortars 60 millimeter and below NEW: less than
5 pounds per item .............................................................................................. C-6
Figure C-11. Fin stabilized mortars 82 millimeter (top) and 100 millimeter recoilless
rifle projectile (bottom) NEW: less than 5 pounds per item .............................. C-6
Figure C-12. Fin stabilized mortars 81 Millimeter and 120 millimeter NEW: less than
5 pounds per item .............................................................................................. C-7
Figure C-13. Spin stabilized mortars 4.2 HE (bottom) and illumination (top) NEW:
less than 10 pounds per item............................................................................. C-7
Figure C-14. Spin stabilized rockets 128 millimeter (left) and 132 millimeter (right)
NEW: less than 10 pounds per item ................................................................. C-8
Figure C-15. Fin stabilized HEAT rockets NEW: less than 3 pounds per item .................... C-8
Figure C-16. Fin stabilized rocket 3.5 inch HEAT NEW: less than 5 pounds per item ........ C-9
Figure C-17. Fin stabilized rocket NEW: less than 10 pounds per item............................... C-9
Figure C-18. Fin stabilized rocket 2.75 inch NEW: less than 10 pounds per item ............... C-9
Figure C-19. Fin stabilized rocket 132 millimeter NEW: less than 20 pounds per item ....... C-9
Figure C-20. Fin stabilized rocket 122 millimeter NEW: less than 20 pounds per item ..... C-10
Figure C-21. Dragon guided missile NEW: less than 10 pounds per item......................... C-10
Figure C-22. TOW guided missile NEW: less than 10 pounds per item ............................ C-11
Figure C-23. HAWK guided missile NEW: less than 40 pounds per item.......................... C-11
Figure C-24. AP rifle grenades NEW: less than 1 pound per item..................................... C-12
Figure C-25. HEAT rifle grenades NEW: less than 3 pounds per item ............................. C-12
Figure C-26. Former Soviet Union rifle grenades, RPG models HEAT NEW: less
than 5 pounds per item .................................................................................... C-13
Figure C-27. Former Yugoslavia rifle grenades HEAT (bottom) and HE (top) NEW:
less than 5 pound............................................................................................. C-13
Figure D-1. Fragmentation grenades NEW: less than 2 pounds per item .......................... D-1
Figure D-2. HEAT grenades NEW: less than 2 pounds per item ......................................... D-2
Figure D-3. Smoke grenades burning type (left) and bursting type (middle and right)
NEW: Not applicable......................................................................................... D-2
Figure D-4. Riot control CS grenades NEW: Not applicable................................................ D-3
Figure D-5. Illumination grenade NEW: Not applicable........................................................ D-3
Figure E-1. AP land mines NEW: less than 0.5 pound per item ..........................................E-1
Figure E-2. AP land mines NEW: less than 2 pounds per item.............................................E-1
Figure E-3. AT/anti-vehicular land mines NEW: less than 15 pounds per item ...................E-2

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Contents

Figure E-4. AT/anti-vehicular land mines NEW: less than 20 pounds per item................... E-2
Figure E-5. AT/anti-vehicular land mines NEW: less than 6 pounds per item..................... E-3
Figure E-6. AT/anti-vehicular land mines NEW: less than 15 pounds per item................... E-3
Figure E-7. AT/anti-vehicular land mines NEW: less than 15 pounds per item................... E-3
Figure E-8. AT/anti-vehicular land mines NEW: less than 22 pounds per item................... E-4

Tables
Table A-1. US and NATO color codes ................................................................................... A-2
Table A-2. Former Soviet Union color codes for bombs........................................................ A-5
Table A-3. Former Soviet Union color codes for projectiles .................................................. A-5
Table A-4. Former Soviet Union markings for chemical munitions........................................ A-5

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Preface
PURPOSE
Field Manual (FM) 4-30.51/Marine Corps (MCRP) 3-17.2A prescribes the doctrine for dealing with the
unexploded ordnance (UXO) hazards on the battlefield. Use the information in this manual to teach military
personnel, Department of Defense (DOD) civilians, and contractors about the UXO hazards they could meet
and the procedures they can use to protect themselves. This manual also gives guidance on how to get help to
take care of the hazards that affect mission capabilities.
When personnel find UXO, they must follow these steps:
z
Note characteristics of the UXO hazard for purposes of identification.
z
Take immediate action (mark and evacuate).
z
Report the UXO hazard using the Explosive Hazards (EH) Spot Report (See chapter 4).
z
Use protective measures against the UXO hazard, if required.
Based on these steps, FM 4-30.51/MCRP 3-17.2A serves as a general guideline for including UXO hazard
procedures in unit standing operating procedures (SOPs). This manual provides information for transmitting and
monitoring UXO reports throughout any battlefield functional area (BFA).

SCOPE
UXO on the battlefield affects the mobility and mission aspects of all units. Battlefields are littered with UXO
hazards from two sources: ordnance that has either failed to function or ordnance designed to be used for area
denial, such as conventional land mines and the family of scatterable mines (FASCAM). With the sophistication
of modern weapons systems, battlefield commanders can target anything within their theater of operations.
After these attacks are completed, UXO hazards will be left on the battlefield.
UXO hazards may not always pose an immediate threat to unit mission or mobility, but they are hazards that
have in the past caused needless loss of life and materiel. Battlefield commanders need to know where UXO
hazards are, as these hazards can affect the mobility of follow-on elements. This manual teaches personnel
about the UXO hazard and how this hazard affects mission capabilities and what procedures are used to report
and protect personnel and equipment. All units should be able to react to the UXO hazard effectively and to
report and protect against it.
During mission planning, leaders must coordinate with supporting artillery and air liaison personnel to find out
what areas are expected to contain large numbers of UXO. These areas should be avoided if possible. This type
of planning makes a unit more mission capable.
There are two types of UXO threats on the battlefield: passive (UXO that is found during unit movement) and
active (UXO that results from an attack). All units must be able to react to both of these types of threats in order
to survive on the modern battlefield. Chapter 6 of this manual covers procedures for reacting to these threats.
Additional information can be found in FM3-34.119 IED Defeat and FM 3-34.210 Explosive Hazards
Operations.
All military personnel, DOD civilians, and contractors risk injury or death from UXO. Therefore, all of these
personnel need to understand how to identify, report, mark and, if necessary, apply protective measures against
UXO. This manual was designed to be used by all of these personnel. All users of this manual are referred to as
personnel in the text.
This manual implements the following NATO standardization agreements (STANAGs):
z
STANAG 2002 (Edition 7). Marking of Contaminated or Dangerous Land Areas, Complete
Equipment, Supplies, and Stores.

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Preface

STANAG 2143 (Edition 4). Explosive Ordnance Reconnaissance/Explosive Ordnance Disposal

(EOR/EOD).

TRAINING STRATEGY
For training to be effective, users of this manual must adopt the procedures outlined into their combat training
and unit SOPs. UXO training can be conducted concurrently with all common and collective training. It can be
incorporated into training in the same way as chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive
(CBRNE) training. Using the full-scale training aid package listed below, training can be conducted during land
navigation, road marches, defensive/offensive operations, or force-on-force training. Preparation time is
minimal; just place the training items where personnel will encounter them during normal training operations.
Evaluation of the training will depend on current mission and unit SOPs. The three most important points for
the trainee to remember are the following:
z
If possible, avoid the item and continue the mission.
z
If avoidance is not possible, take protective measures to reduce the hazard to personnel and
equipment.
z
Always report the hazard using the EH spot report (see Chapter 4).

USER INFORMATION
The following training items are available at your local training aids support center (TASC) for you to use in
your units UXO training program:
z
Graphic Training Aid (GTA) 9-12-1, Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Procedures.
z
DVC-T 5-47, Full-scale UXO training-aid package.
z
Safety Video 709919, Danger UXO."
z
Instructional Video 710288, The UXO Hazard.
This manual is the reference for the following soldier training publication (STP) common tasks:
z
STP 21-1 -SMCT (new edition published 11 Oct 2005), React to Unexplored Ordnance Hazards
093-401-5040 and React to a Possible Improvised Explosive Device (IED) 093-401-5050.
Any reference made in this manual to the former Soviet Union, or to Soviet-style ordnance, refers to the type of
ordnance that was produced and distributed by the Soviet-block countries. This type of ordnance is still found
stockpiled and is being sold throughout the world. United States (US) forces will find this type of ordnance on
future battlefields.
While personnel are not expected to determine ordnance fillers, the color codes on the ordnance (US and
Soviet-style) help to identify the types of UXOs. See Appendix A.
This publication applies to the Active Army, the Army National Guard (ARNG)/Army National Guard of the
United States (ARNGUS), and the United States Army Reserve (USAR) unless otherwise stated.
The proponent of this publication is the United States Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC).
Send comments and recommendations on DA Form 2028 (Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank
Forms) to Commander, United States Army Ordnance Missile and Electronics Maintenance School, Attention:
ATSK-EODT, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama 35897-6500.

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Chapter 1

The Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Hazard

UXOs may or may not always pose an immediate threat to unit mission or mobility,
yet it is imperative that all personnel on the battlefield have the ability to recognize
and react to the UXO threat. Additionally, it is the responsibility of leaders at all
levels to ensure that all personnel are aware and trained to deal with UXO. UXO
response should be included in unit training plans (Predeployment and day to day), as
well as included in operational orders. Failure to do so can, will, and has caused
numerous deaths and/or injuries. Training and operation orders (OPORDs) should
include UXO, Identification, Reporting, Marking, and Immediate Action procedures.

UXO LOCATIONS AND THREATS

1-1. UXOs are an explosive hazard which has been primed, fuzed, armed, or otherwise prepared for
action, and which has been fired, dropped, launched, projected, or placed in such a manner as to constitute
a hazard to operations, installations, personnel, or material, and remains unexploded either by malfunction
or design or for any other cause. Whatever the reason, UXO poses the risk of injury or death to all
personnel.
1-2. The EOD mission is to eliminate or reduce the threat of EH. In order to provide additional clearing
capability, some combat engineer soldiers have been trained by EOD as Explosive Ordnance Clearance
Agents (EOCA) and have limited UXO destruct capability. Units must recognize the threat from UXO and
plan for support from EOD or EOCA to clear the hazard.
1-3. Designated impact areas are marked on all military maps, and they are also marked on the ground by
warning signs and fences. Personnel are not allowed in these areas because of the UXO hazards.

GENERAL SAFETY GUIDELINES

1-4. Stay away from UXOs. This is the best way to prevent accidental injury or death.
1-5. Personnel can lessen the danger by being able to recognize a UXO hazard and strictly follow the
basic safety guidelines listed below.
DO NOT continue to move towards a suspected UXO. Some types of ordnance have magnetic
or motion sensitive fuzing and will not detonate until they sense a target.
1-6. Others may have self-destruct timers built in. Once you recognize a UXO hazard, stop and make any
further observations with binoculars if necessary. Refer to Chapter 2 for additional information on the
recognition of UXO.

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1-1

Chapter 1

DANGER
UXOs are highly susceptible to electromagnetic radiation (EMR)
and may explode. This could come from communication and
transmitting devices.
1-7. Make all radio transmissions at least 100 meters away from a UXO hazard. When transmitting,
radios send out electricity from their antennas. This electricity can make a UXO detonate.

DANGER
Never move, jar, strike, or touch a UXO. Do not move or remove
anything on or near a UXO. UXOs can be extremely sensitive and
can cause serious injury or death if disturbed in any way.
1-8. Do not move or disturb a UXO. It could detonate.

DANGER
Avoid the area where a UXO is located unless absolutely
necessary. When a submunition is identified, leave the area by
the same path you entered. There may be many more
submunitions in the same area. Small size does not diminish the
danger of submunitions.
1-9. Mark a UXO hazard area as outlined in para. 3-15 so that other personnel will stay away from it.
Proper marking also helps EOD find the area when they respond to your report. Refer to Chapter 3 for
additional information.
1-10. Evacuate all nonessential personnel and equipment from a UXO hazard area. If personnel and
equipment cannot be evacuated, you must take protective measures to reduce the risk to them. Refer to
Chapter 3 for additional information.
1-11. Use extreme caution until the type of ordnance and fuzing is confirmed.
1-12. Report all UXO hazards on the EH Spot Report. Reporting UXO hazards will get your unit the help
it needs. Refer to Chapter 4 for additional information.
1-13. If necessary, extract the unit from a hazardous area. Refer to Chapter 5 for additional information.

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Chapter 2

Recognize UXO
Being able to recognize a UXO is the first and most important step in reacting to a
UXO hazard. There is a multitude of ordnance used throughout the world, and it
comes in all shapes and sizes. This chapter explains and shows the general
identifying features of the different types of ordnance, both US and foreign. In this
chapter, ordnance is divided into four main types: dropped, projected, thrown, and
placed.

DANGER
Avoid the area where a UXO is located unless absolutely
necessary. When a submunition is identified, leave the area by
the same path you entered. There may be many more
submunitions in the same area. Small size does not diminish the
danger of submunitions.

DROPPED ORDNANCE
2-1. Regardless of its type or purpose, dropped ordnance is dispensed or dropped from an aircraft.
Dropped ordnance is divided into three subgroups: bombs; dispensers, which contain submunitions; and
submunitions. Photographs of dropped ordnance and their net explosive weights (NEW) are in Appendix B.

DANGER
Many types of UXO may contain an incendiary (fire producing),
chemical, biological, or radiological hazard in addition to
explosives.

BOMBS
2-2. As shown in Figure 2-1, general-purpose bombs come in many shapes and sizes depending on the
country that made them and how they are to be used. Generally, all of these bombs are built the same and
consist of a metal container, a fuze, and a stabilizing device. The metal container (called the bomb body)
holds explosive or chemical filler. The body may be in one piece or in multiple pieces. The bombs shown
in Figure 2-2 are Soviet-style, general-purpose bombs.
2-3. Chemical-agent filled bombs are built the same as general purpose bombs. In Figure 2-3, the US
chemical bombs are general-purpose bombs. They have chemical filler in place of explosive filler. The
color codes and markings shown in Appendix A may be used to identify chemical bombs. For example, the
US and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) color code for chemical munitions is a gray
background with a dark green band. The former Soviet Union used the same bombs as shown in Figure 2-2,
and added a combination of green, red, and blue markings to the nose and tail sections to indicate chemical
agents. Soviet bombs generally have a gray background.

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2-1

Chapter 2

NOTE: Many countries do not follow these color code standards, so you may see a wide variety
of colors and markings. See Appendix A.

Figure 2-1. General-purpose bombs

Figure 2-2. Soviet-style, generalpurpose bombs

Figure 2-3. US chemical bombs

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Recognize UXO

FUZES
2-4. Fuzes used to initiate bombs are either mechanical or electrical, They are generally placed in the nose
or tail section, internally or externally. The fuzes may not always be visible, as they are often covered by
the fin assembly. As shipped, fuzes are in a safe (unarmed) condition and cannot function until armed.
2-5. Mechanical fuzing, whether in the nose or in the tail, is generally armed by some type of arming vane
as shown in Figure 2-4.
2-6. The arming vane assembly operates like a propeller to line up all of the fuze parts so the fuze will
become armed.

Figure 2-4. Arming vane assemblies

2-7. Electrical fuzes have an electric charging assembly in place of an arming vane. They are armed by
using power from the aircraft. Just before the pilot releases the bomb, the aircraft supplies the required
electrical charge to the bombs fuze.
2-8. Action of the fuze may be impact, proximity, or delay. Impact fuzes function when they hit the
target. Proximity fuzes function when bombs reach a predetermined height above the target. Delay fuzes
contain an element that delays explosion for a fixed time after impact.
2-9. To be safe, personnel should consider that all bombs have the most dangerous kind of fuzing, which
is proximity or delay. Approaching a proximity- or delay -fuzed bomb causes unnecessary risk to personnel
and equipment. Although it should function before it hits the target, proximity fuzing may not always do
so. Once the bomb hits the ground, the proximity fuze can still function. It can sense a change in the area
around the bomb and detonate. Delay fuzing can be mechanical, electrical, or chemical. Mechanical- and
electrical-delay fuzes are nothing more than clockwork mechanisms. The chemical-delay fuze uses a
chemical compound inside the fuze to cause a chemical reaction with the firing system. Delay fuzing times
can range from milliseconds to days.

STABILIZING DEVICES
2-10. Bombs are stabilized in flight by either fin or parachute assemblies. These assemblies attach to the
rear section of the bomb and keep the bomb nose-down during its descent. These assemblies can separate
from the bomb after the bomb hits the ground. As shown in Figure 2-5, two common types of fin
assemblies used by foreign countries are the conical- and box-fin assemblies. The retarding-fin assembly
shown in Figure 2-6 is used by the US for most of its general-purpose bombs.

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Chapter 2

Figure 2-5. Conical- and box-fin assemblies

2-11.
Some bombs are stabilized by a parachute assembly as shown in Figure 2-7. The parachute assembly
opens after the bomb is released from the aircraft. Even though the parachute may separate from the bomb after it
hits the ground, you should never try to recover a parachute assembly found lying on the ground. The bomb may
have become buried, and the parachute could still be attached to the bomb. As shown in Figure 2-8, former
Soviet Union bombs have fins that are welded to the bomb body. Therefore, the fins cannot become separated
from the bomb. However, the fins can wrap around the rear section of the bomb after it hits the ground and
obscure the tail fuze from view.

Figure 2-6. Retarding-fin assembly (opens

after release)

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Figure 2-7. Parachute assembly

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Figure 2-8. Soviet-style fin assemblies

DISPENSERS
2-12. Dispensers may be classified as another type of dropped ordnance. Like bombs, they are carried by
aircraft. Their payload, however, is smaller ordnance called submunitions. Submunitions are discussed later
in this chapter, In Figure 2-9, the cutaway shows the submunitions inside the dispenser body. Dispensers
come in a variety of shapes and sizes depending on the payload inside. Some dispensers are reusable, and
some are one-time-use items.

Figure 2-9. Dispenser (cutaway section)

2-13. Never approach a dispenser or any part of a dispenser you find on the battlefield. The payload of
submunitions may be scattered in the area where the dispenser hit the ground.

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Chapter 2

DROPPED DISPENSERS
2-14. These dispensers (Figure 2-10) fall away from the aircraft and are stabilized in flight by fin
assemblies. Dropped dispensers may be in one piece or in multiple pieces. All dropped dispensers use
either mechanical time or proximity fuzing. These fuzes allow the payload to be dispersed at a
predetermined height above the target. Multiple-piece dispensers open up and disperse their payload when
the fuze functions. Single-piece dispensers eject their payload out of ports or holes in the body when the
fuze functions.

ATTACHED DISPENSERS
2-15. These dispensers stay attached to the aircraft and can be reloaded and used again. Their payload is
dispersed out of the rear or from the bottom of the dispenser. See Figure 2-11.

Figure 2-10. Dropped dispensers

Figure 2-11. Attached dispensers

SUBMUNITIONS
2-16. Submunitions are classified as either bomblets, grenades, or mines. They are small explosive or
chemical filled items designed for saturation coverage of a large area. They may be antipersonnel (AP),
antimateriel (AMAT), antitank (AT), dual purpose (DP), incendiary, or chemical. Submunitions may be
spread by dispensers, missiles, rockets, or projectiles. Each of these delivery systems disperses its payload
of submunitions while still in flight, and the submunitions drop over the target. On the battlefield,
submunitions are widely used in both offensive and defensive missions.
2-17. Submunitions are used to destroy an enemy in place (impact) or to slow or prevent enemy movement
away from or through an area (area denial). Impact submunitions go off when they hit the ground. Some
area-denial submunitions, including FASCAM, may have a limited active life and self-destruct after their
active life has expired.

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2-18. The major difference between scatterable mines and placed mines is that the scatterable mines land
on the surface and can be seen. Placed mines, discussed in a later section, may be hidden or buried under
the ground and usually cannot be seen.
2-19. The ball-type submunitions shown in Figure 2-12 are AP. They are very small and are delivered on
known concentrations of enemy personnel. The submunition shown in Figure 2-13 is scattered across an
area. Like a land mine, it will not detonate until pressure is put on the submunition.

Figure 2-12. AP ball-type submunitions

Figure 2-13. AP pressure-activated

submunition

WARNING
DO NOT TOUCH OR DISTURB TRIP WIRES ASSOCIATED WITH
AP SUBMUNITIONS.
2-20. The AP submunition shown in Figure 2-14 can be delivered by aircraft or by artillery. When it hits
the ground, a small fragmentation ball shoots up and detonates about 6 feet above the ground. The
submunitions shown in Figure 2-15, are area-denial AP submunitions (FASCAM). These submunitions are
delivered into areas for use as mines. When they hit the ground, trip wires kick out up to 20 feet from the
mine. Most area-denial submunitions use antidisturbance fuzing with self-destruct fuzing as a backup. The
self-destruct time can vary from a couple of hours to as long as several days.

Figure 2-14. AP bounding-fragmentation

submunition

Figure 2-15. AP area-denial submunitions

(FASCAM)

2-21. The DP submunition shown in Figure 2-16 has a shaped charge for penetrating hard targets but is
also used against personnel. These submunitions are delivered by projectiles or rockets. The arming ribbon
serves two purposes: it not only arms the fuze as the submunition comes down, but it also stabilizes the
submunition so that it hits the target straight on.

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Figure 2-16. DP submunition

2-22. The AMAT and/or AT submunitions shown in Figure 2-17 are designed to destroy hard targets such
as vehicles and equipment. They are dispersed from an aircraft-dropped dispenser and function when they
hit a target or the ground. Drogue parachutes stabilize these submunitions in flight so they hit their targets
straight on. The submunitions shown in Figure 2-18 are also used to destroy hard targets such as vehicles
and equipment. The only difference is that the fin assembly stabilizes the submunition instead of the drogue
parachute.

Figure 2-17. AMAT/AT parachute-stabilized submunitions

WARNING
DO NOT TOUCH OR DISTURB STABILIZATION PARACHUTE OR
RIBBON THIS MAY ARM OR DETONATE SUBMUNITION.

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Figure 2-18. AMAT/AT fin-stabilized submunitions

2-23. AT area-denial submunitions (Figure 2-19) can be delivered by aircraft, artillery, and even some
engineer vehicles. These FASCAMs may have magnetic fuzing. They will function when they receive a
signal from metallic objects. These submunitions, similar to the AP area-denial submunitions that are
shown in Figure 2-15, also have antidisturbance and self-destruct fuzing. AT and AP area-denial mines are
usually found deployed together.

Figure 2-19. AT area-denial submunitions (FASCAM)

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PROJECTED ORDNANCE
2-24. All projected ordnance is fired from some type of launcher or gun tube. Photographs of projected
ordnance and their NEW are in Appendix C. Projected ordnance falls into the following five subgroups:
z
Projectiles.
z
Mortars.
z
Rockets.
z
Guided missiles.
z
Rifle grenades.

PROJECTILES
2-25. Projectiles range from 20 millimeters to 16 inches in diameter and from 2 inches to 4 feet in length.
They can have a variety of fillers including explosives, chemicals (to include riot-control agents such as
combat support [CS]), white phosphorus (WP), illumination flares, or submunitions. Projectile bodies can
be one piece of metal or multiple sections fastened together.
2-26. Projectiles, like bombs, can have impact or proximity fuzing. They can also be fuzed with time-delay
fuzing that functions at a preset time after firing. For safety reasons, all projectiles should be considered as
having proximity fuzing. Getting too close to proximity fuzing will cause the fuze to function, and the
projectile will detonate. Depending on the type of filler and the design of the projectile, the fuze can be in
the nose, as shown in Figure 2-20 or in the base, as shown in Figure 2-21.
2-27. There are two ways projectiles are stabilized, by spin or fin. Spin-stabilized projectiles use rotating
bands near the rear section to stabilize the projectile. See Figure 2-22. Riding along the internal lands and
grooves of the gun tube, these bands create a stabilizing spin as the projectile is fired. Fin-stabilized
projectiles may have either fixed fins or folding fins. See Figure 2-23. Folding fins unfold after the
projectile leaves the gun tube to stabilize the projectile.

Figure 2-20. Nose-fuzed projectiles

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Figure 2-21. Base-fuzed projectile

Figure 2-22. Spin-stabilized projectiles

Figure 2-23. Fin-stabilized projectiles

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Chapter 2

DEPLETED URANIUM (DU)

2-28. DU ammunition is known to be currently in service with the armed forces of Israel, Russia, UK, and
USA. DU ammunition is commonly restricted to armor piercing fin stabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS)
tank and Armored Fighting Vehicle (AFV) ammunition in calibers ranging from 20 mm to 125mm. Cannon
rounds range from 20 to 30mm for ground attack rotary and fixed wing aircraft.

IDENTIFICATION OF DU UXO
2-29. DU UXOs have the following physical characteristics:
z
They are non-magnetic.
z
DU UXO are extremely heavy. In relation to size DU is 60 percent more dense than lead.
z
They are jet-black in color, possibly with a greenish tinge. After three to four weeks they will
turn green.
z
The fragment will have a honeycombed texture.
z
DU UXOs will retain heat to the point where they will cause serious burns for three to four hours
after firing. A red hot core may be coated with black dust and therefore appear cool.

DANGER
Do not let DU residue or fragments come into contact with
exposed unprotected skin. DU fragments are not to be picked up
by hand; a scoop or other such tool is to be used.
2-30. If you feel you have come in contact with DU you should wash any exposed skin, do not eat or drink
until you have contacted your unit chemical/radiation protection officer.
2-31. You should be aware that it will not be possible, without special instruments, to detect whether a
damaged target has been struck by DU. The following precautions should be taken
z
Do not enter or climb onto a damaged hard target, or loiter within 50 meters, unless you are
working in co-operation with an EOD team.
z
If your work requires you to work within 50 meters, wear a facemask and gloves, and roll your
sleeves down. Cover any cuts and abrasions with waterproof dressings. Spend as little time as
practicable on the task.
z
Do not eat, drink or smoke near the damaged target. After completing your task, wash and
shower as soon as practicable. Remove your outer clothing and, if feasible, replace it. Otherwise,
have it laundered. Do not eat, drink or smoke until you have done so.
z
If you suspect you have been exposed to DU, inform your medical support team.

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Figure 2-24. Line Drawing of a DU Projectile

Figure 2-25. DU UXO

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Chapter 2

MORTARS
2-32. Mortars range from 45 millimeters to 280 millimeters in diameter. Like projectiles, mortar shells can
be filled with a variety of fillers including explosives, toxic chemicals, WP, or illumination flares. Mortars
generally have thinner metal bodies than projectiles but use the same kind of fuzing. Like projectiles,
mortars are stabilized in flight by fin or spin. Most mortars are fin stabilized, like the ones shown in
Figure 2-26. Other mortars are spin stabilized as shown in Figure 2-27.

Figure 2-26. Fin-stabilized mortars

Figure 2-27. Spin-stabilized mortars

ROCKETS
2-33. A rocket may be defined as a self-propelled projectile. Unlike guided missiles, rockets cannot be
controlled in flight. Rockets range in diameter from 37 millimeters to over 380 millimeters. There is no
standard shape or size to rockets, as you can see in Figure 2-28. All rockets consist of a warhead section, a
motor section, and a fuze. See Figure 2-29. They are stabilized in flight by fins, or canted nozzles, that are
attached to the motor.

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Figure 2-28. Rockets

Figure 2-29. Parts of a rocket

2-34. The warhead is the portion of the rocket that produces the desired effect. It can be filled with a
variety of fillers such as explosives, toxic chemicals, WP, submunitions, CS, or illumination flares. The
rocket motor propels the rocket to the target. The fuze is the component that initiates the desired effect at
the desired time. Rockets use the same type of fuzing as projectiles and mortars. The fuze may be located in
the nose or internally between the warhead and the motor.
2-35. Rockets can be launched or fired from individual weapons (such as the light antitank weapon
system), aircraft, mobile-launch vehicles, or stationary launch pads.
2-36. Some rockets are spin stabilized. Unlike projectiles and mortars, these rockets do not have rotating
bands. Instead, as shown in Figure 2-30, their motor nozzles are slanted to produce the spin. The presence
of motor nozzles, or venturis, in the rear of the rocket motor can be used for positive identification purposes
for this type of ordnance.

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Figure 2-30. Spin-stabilized rocket

GUIDED MISSILES
2-37. The difference between a missile and a rocket is that the missile is guided to the target by various
guidance systems. Some of the smaller missiles, such as the tube-launched, optically tracked, wire-guided
(TOW) and Dragon missiles are wire-guided by the gunner to their targets. See Figure 2-31. Larger
missiles, such as the phased-array tracking radar intercept on target (PATRIOT) and the Sparrow are
guided by radar to their target. See Figure 2-32. The radar may be internal to the missile, like the
PATRIOT, or external, like the Sparrow, which uses the airplanes radar system. Guided missiles are
usually stabilized in flight by fins that are controlled by internal electronics. Most guided missiles use
internal, proximity fuzing. Therefore, do not approach any guided missile you find lying on the battlefield.

Figure 2-31. AT guided missiles

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Figure 2-32. PATRIOT and Sparrow guided missiles

RIFLE GRENADES
2-38. Rifle grenades look like mortars and are fired from a rifle that is equipped with a grenade launcher or
an adapter. Many countries use rifle grenades as an infantry direct-fire weapon. Some rifle grenades are
propelled by specially designed blank cartridges, while others are propelled by standard ball cartridges.
Rifle grenades may be filled with high explosives (HEs), WP, CS, illumination flares, or colored screening
smoke. They range in size from the small AP rifle grenade to the larger AT rifle grenade. AP rifle grenades
use impact fuzing. See Figure 2-33. Some rifle grenades, such as the AT, have internal fuzing behind the
warhead (Figure 2-34). This type of fuzing still functions on impact with the target.

Figure 2-33. AP rifle grenades

Figure 2-34. AT rifle grenades

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THROWN ORDNANCE
DANGER
Never approach a grenade that was thrown and did not detonate,
even if you threw it. Do not move, jar, or disturb - the fuse may
function at any time.
Never pick up, move, or disturb a found grenade, even if spoon or
safety pin are attached. The grenade may be booby-trapped and
explode when disturbed.
2-39. Thrown ordnance, commonly known as hand grenades, can be classified by use as follows:
z
Fragmentation (also called defensive).
z
Offensive.
z
Antitank.
z
Smoke.
z
Illumination.
Photographs of thrown ordnance and their NEW are in Appendix D.
2-40. Hand grenades are small items that may be held in one hand and thrown. All grenades have three
main parts: a body, a fuze with a pull ring and safety clip assembly, and a filler. See Figure 2-35. Never
pick up a grenade you find on the battlefield, even if the spoon and safety pin are still attached. All
grenades found lying on a battlefield should be considered booby-trapped.

Figure 2-35. Parts of a grenade

FRAGMENTATION GRENADES
2-41. Fragmentation grenades are the most common type of grenade and may be used as offensive or
defensive weapons. See Figure 2-36. They have metal or plastic bodies that hold an explosive filler. These
grenades produce casualties by high-velocity projection of fragments when they detonate. The
fragmentation comes from the metal body or a metal fragmentation sleeve that can be internal or attached
to the outside of the grenade. These grenades may use an impact or burning delay fuze that functions 3 to 5
seconds after the safety lever is released.

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Figure 2-36. Fragmentation grenades

OFFENSIVE GRENADES
2-42. Offensive grenades have a plastic or a cardboard body. See Figure 2-37. They are not designed to
have a lot of fragmentation. Their damage is caused from the over pressure of the explosive blast. These
grenades may use an impact or burning-delay fuze that functions 3 to 5 seconds after the safety lever is
released.

Figure 2-37. Offensive grenade

ANTITANK GRENADES
2-43. AT grenades are designed to be thrown at tanks and other armored vehicles. They have a shapedcharge explosive warhead and are stabilized in flight by a spring-deployed parachute or a cloth streamer.
See Figure 2-38. These grenades use impact fuzing.

SMOKE GRENADES
2-44. There are two types of smoke grenades: bursting and burning. See Figure 2-39. They may be made of
rubber, metal, or plastic. Bursting-type smoke grenades are filled with WP and detonate when the fuze
functions. These grenades use a burning delay fuze that functions 3 to 5 seconds after the safety lever is
released. Burning-type smoke grenades produce colored smoke. This type of grenade uses an instant-action
fuze. There is no delay once the spoon is released. This is the same type of grenade that is used to dispense
riot-control agents (such as CS).

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Chapter 2

Figure 2-38. AT grenades

Figure 2-39. Smoke grenades

ILLUMINATION GRENADES
2-45. Illumination grenades are used for illuminating, signaling, and as an incendiary agent. See
Figure 2-40. The metal body breaks apart after the fuze functions and dispenses an illumination flare. This
type of grenade uses a burning-delay fuze that functions 3 to 5 seconds after the safety lever is released.

Figure 2-40. US illumination grenade

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PLACED ORDNANCE
DANGER
Consider all mines to be booby-trapped or to have
antidisturbance fuzing. Never attempt to uncover or remove
placed ordnance.
2-46. Placed ordnance is commonly referred to as land mines. Land mines may be hidden or buried under
the ground and may be classified as AP or AT. Visual detection of land mines may be difficult at best. If
you come to a suspected minefield, report it through your chain of command. For further information and
procedures for reporting land mines, refer to FM 3-34.210. Photographs of placed ordnance and their NEW
are in Appendix E.

ANTIPERSONNEL MINES
2-47. AP mines are generally small and come in different shapes and sizes. See Figure 2-41. AP mines
may be constructed from a variety of materials including plastic and wood. Some AP mines are designed to
function when stepped on, such as those shown in Figure 2-41. Other AP mines are designed for use as
booby traps. See Figure 2-42. These mines are set up to function by using a trip wire laid out across a path
or road. When the trip wire is pulled or cut, the fuze functions. Some AP mines, such as the US claymore
mine, may be set up to function by command detonation.

Figure 2-41. AP pressure-fuzed mines

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Chapter 2

Figure 2-42. AP trip wire-fuzed mines

ANTITANK MINES
2-48. AT mines are much larger than AP mines and may use a variety of fusing including pressure,
magnetic or tilt-rod fuzing. Some of the more modern AT mines have plastic bodies, which make them
hard to detect with a metallic mine detector. The variety of AT mines shown in Figure 2-43 all function by
direct pressure from a tank or vehicle. The mines shown in Figure 2-44, use a tilt-rod fuze that sticks out of
the ground. When the rod is moved or pushed over, the mine detonates.

Figure 2-43. AT pressure-fuzed mines

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Figure 2-44. AT tilt-rod fuzed mines

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Chapter 3

Take Immediate Action

All UXOs found on the battlefield affect maneuver and mission capabilities.
When you find a UXO, you must make some immediate decisions. These
decisions will depend on your current mission, the size and location of the UXO,
and your units capabilities. Figure 3-1 shows a decision chart to help you decide.
This information is also in GTA 9-12-1, which is available at your local TASC.
DETECT UXO

REPORT IMMEDIATLY

YES

AVOID

NO

MARK IT,
CONTINUE MISSION

YES

EOD, EOCA AVAILABLE

NEUTRALIZE

NO

IMMEDIATE ACTION
EVACUATE, ISOLATE,
AND BARRICADE

Figure 3-1. Decision chart

If at all possible, avoiding/bypassing the UXO hazard is the safest option to take
for personnel and equipment. if the UXO hazard is left from a recent enemy
attack, you must consider protecting your personnel and equipment by extracting
them from the area before another attack is targeted on you. See Chapter 5 for
extraction procedures.
If the mission cannot be accomplished due to the presence of the UXO and the
hazard cannot be avoided/bypassed, protective measures must be taken to reduce
the hazard to personnel and equipment. Regardless of the option you choose, the
location of the UXO must be clearly marked with UXO markers and the hazard
reported to your next higher headquarters. See Chapter 4 for procedures on
reporting a UXO hazard.

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PROTECTIVE MEASURES
3-1. There are three methods you can use to protect personnel and equipment. You can evacuate,
isolate, or barricade them.

EVACUATE
3-2. Evacuation of all nonessential personnel and equipment is the best protective measure. The
evacuation distances given in Figure 3-2 provide a reasonable degree of safety for unprotected
personnel and equipment. These distances are based on your estimate of the amount of explosive filler
in the UXO. If protective barricades are used around the UXO, these distances can be reduced.
3-3. The general rule for estimating the amount of explosive in an ordnance item is as follows:
Assume that 50 percent of the total ordnance weight equals the NEW. For example, a 500-pound bomb
would be calculated to have 250 pounds of explosive. According to Figure 3-2, the safe distance for
unprotected personnel is 625 meters. Refer to Appendixes B through E for the NEW of general
ordnance items.
3-4. After all personnel and equipment are evacuated, movement within the area should be kept to
essential operations only. If equipment cannot be evacuated, only mission-essential personnel should
be allowed in the area. The equipment should be protected by barricades and personnel should wear all
protective equipment.

Explosive
Weight (pounds)
27 and less
30
35
40
45
50
100
150
200
250
300
400
500

Evacuation
Distance (meters)
300
310
330
350
360
375
475
550
600
625
675

725
800

Figure 3-2. Evacuation distances

ISOLATE
3-5. Sometimes, for mission-related, operational, or other reasons, you cannot evacuate personnel
and/or equipment or you cannot leave a particular area. When this happens, you must isolate either
your assets (personnel, equipment, and operations) from the UXO or isolate the UXO from your assets.
See Figure 3-6, 3-7, and 3-8.

BARRICADE
3-6. If your unit is stationary, evacuate all nonessential personnel and equipment out of the hazard
area. Equipment that cannot be moved must be protected with barricades. Personnel who cannot be
evacuated from the area must also be protected from the hazard. You can do this by reinforcing the
fighting positions on the side facing the hazard and by adding overhead cover.
3-7. A barricade is an artificial barrier that provides limited protection by channeling the blast and
fragmentation from the threatened area. Barricades may also be used to lessen the effect of the blast

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and to reduce the size of the evacuation area. When determining if barricades are needed, you must
estimate the probable damage that would result if the UXO were to explode. Building artificial
barricades is very time consuming and requires a large number of sandbags. Depending on the size of
the UXO, barricades can be built around the UXO to protect the entire area, or they can be built next to
the equipment or areas that cannot be evacuated.
3-8. Use the following general guidelines when building barricades:
z
Calculate the total destructive power of the UXO hazard. Multiply the number of items by
their NEW.
z
Determine which assets cannot be moved or evacuated from the area safely.
z
For those assets that cannot be moved or evacuated, decide on the type of barricade(s) you
will need to protect your assets. Sandbags, or other dirt or water filled barriers can be used.
Concrete barriers are not preferred near the ordnance item as they tend to produce more
fragments.
z
Determine how many personnel are available to help build barricades. Use the absolute
fewest personnel. Determine what equipment you can use. If earth-moving equipment is
available, you can build earth barriers in place of sandbag barricades.
z
Calculate the number of sandbags you will need or that are already available to build
barricades. Personnel evacuated from the UXO area can fill sandbags and transport them to
the barricade site.
z
Make sure that all personnel actually building barricades are wearing all available safety
equipment. This safety equipment includes a kevlar helmet, a flak vest, and hearing
protection.

PLACEMENT AND SIZE OF BARRICADES

3-9. The barricade should be built no closer to the UXO than the height for the barricade plus 3 feet.
Further guidance on the height for barricades is provided later in this section. For example, the
barricade shown in Figure 3-3 is 5 feet tall. By adding an additional 3 feet, the barricade is built no
closer than 8 feet to the UXO. Build the barricade between the building and/or the equipment to be
protected and the UXO. By positioning the barricade in this location, personnel who are in or around
the building or who are using the equipment will be afforded the greatest protection from the blast and
flying fragments. See Figure 3-4. Refer to para 3-11 thru 3-13 for the appropriate height of a barricade.

Figure 3-3. Placement distance for barricade

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Chapter 3

Figure 3-4. Placement of wall barricade

3-10. When building a barricade, the sandbags must be interlocked for stability. See Figure 3-5.
Sandbags that are not interlocked will reduce protection and make the barricade unstable.

Figure 3-5. Interlocking sandbags

3-11. Small UXO. For small UXOs such as missiles and rockets less than 70 millimeters in diameter,
for projectiles less than 75 millimeters in diameter, and for submunitions and grenades, a double wall
thickness of sandbags should surround the area of the UXO. The sandbags must be stacked to a height
of at least 3 feet and should be thick enough to protect personnel and equipment from the blast and
fragmentation. This type of barricade may be semicircular or circular. Types of barricades are
discussed later in this section.
3-12. Medium UXO. For medium-sized UXOs such as missiles, rockets, and projectiles up to 200
millimeters in diameter, and for large sized placed munitions on the surface, a four- or five-wall
thickness of sandbags should surround the area. The sandbags must be stacked to a height of at least 5
feet in order to protect assets. This type of barricade is usually semicircular.
3-13. Large UXO. Large UXOs such as projectiles, missiles, and general-purpose bombs are too large
for effective barricades to be built around the ordnance item. In these cases, equipment and personnel
activity areas would need to be barricaded. A wall barricade between the affected area and the UXO
hazard provides the best and easiest protection. Jersey or Texas concrete barriers can be used to protect
assets in this situation since the barrier is further away from the ordnance site.

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Take Immediate Action

BARRICADE TYPES
3-14. The three types of barricades are circular, semicircular, and wall. The type barricade that you use
will depend on the UXO hazard and the area that requires protection.
z
Circular. A circular barricade is the best choice for small UXO hazards, because it provides
complete protection for personnel and equipment. A circular barricade that is 8 feet in
diameter, 3 feet tall, and 3 sandbags thick would require approximately 400 sandbags. The
barricade shown in Figure 3-6 will force the blast upwards and contain the majority of the
fragments.

Figure 3-6. Complete circular placement of barricade

z

Semicircular. A semicircular barricade is used for small- and medium-sized UXO hazards.
It will channel the blast and fragmentation through the open side and away from the
protected area. See Figure 3-7.
Wall. The wall barricade protects specific equipment or personnel areas. It is used when the
UXO hazard is too large to contain by using a circular or semicircular barricade. The
number of wall barricades you need will depend on how much equipment or how many
personnel you must protect. A wall barricade that is 12 feet long, 6 feet high, and 3
sandbags thick would require 700 sandbags. As shown in Figure 3-8, the barricade should
extend beyond and be at least as tall as the equipment or personnel areas to be protected.
Equipment that is barricaded must still be usable. For example, the radar shown in Figure 38 must be left exposed in order to function.

Figure 3-7. Semicircular placement of barricade

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Chapter 3

Figure 3-8. Wall barricade placement

This item implements STANAG 2002, Edition 7.

MARK UXO
3-15. Marking a UXO hazard is just as important as marking other hazard areas such as CBRNE areas,
minefield, and booby-trapped areas. All of these hazards are marked by using triangular signs, if
readily available, that by their background color indicate the danger involved. The standard UXO
marker is shown in Figure 3-9. The background is red with a white bomb inset. It has the same
dimensions as the other markers.

Figure 3-9. Standard UXO marker

3-16. The UXO marker is placed above ground at waist level (about 3 feet) with the bomb pointing
down as shown in Figure 3-10. The marker should be placed no closer to the hazard than the point
where you first recognized the UXO hazard. The marker should be attached to a stake (Figure 3-10), a
tree, or other suitable holder. Just be sure that the marker is clearly visible.
3-17. You should also mark all logical approach routes to the area. If the hazard is near a road, as a
minimum, put a marker on each side of the road approaching the UXO. If there is a large concentration
of UXO hazards such as submunitions, mark the area as you would a scatterable minefield, with
markers placed about every 15 meters around the area. Refer to FM 3-34.210 for additional
information on marking minefields.

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Take Immediate Action

Figure 3-10. Marking a UXO with standard marker

3-18. As a general rule, the UXO hazard itself must be easily seen from any of the markers. This helps
to keep others away from the hazard. It also helps the EOD team to find the hazard.
3-19. If standard UXO markers are not available, you may use other suitable materials (such as
engineer tape or colored ribbons). Try using the same color ribbon to avoid confusion. When using
other materials, the same principles used for the standard markers apply for placement of the makeshift
markers. That is, they should be placed about 3 feet off the ground and easily seen from all approach
routes. See Figure 3-11.

Figure 3-11. Marking UXO with alternate type of material

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This page intentionally left blank.

Chapter 4

Report the UXO Hazard

As discussed in Chapter 1, UXO hazards on the battlefield have an enormous effect
on command and control decisions for battle planning. The location of these hazards
is vital to the command and control elements when projecting movement and support
of combat units. UXO hazards also have a direct impact on the combat capabilities of
any element that encounters them. To assist commanders, an effective UXO reporting
system must be in place and maintained to allow commanders to concentrate EOD
assets according to priorities and battle plans.

EXPLOSIVE HAZARDS SPOT REPORT

4-1. The EH spot report (formally known as the UXO spot report) is a detailed, swift, reporting system
that makes clear where the UXO hazard areas are, what their priorities are, and which units are affected by
them. The report is used to request help in handling a UXO hazard that is beyond a units ability to handle
and that affects the units mission. This report helps the commander set priorities based on the battlefield
situation. If tactically feasible add a digital photo to the Spot Report. Digital photos can greatly assist EOD
personnel in identifying UXO and therefore providing any subsequent recommendations to the reporting
unit.
4-2. The EH spot report is the first-echelon report that is sent when a UXO is encountered. Information
about this report is also found in GTA 9-12-1 and in the supplemental information section of the signal
operating instructions (SOI), where it is just behind the request for medical evacuation (MEDEVAC).
4-3. The EH spot report lets personnel on the battlefield report found UXOs, improvised explosive
devices (IEDs), and captured enemy ammunition (CEA) through the appropriate channels. It provides a
brief description, location, and recommended priority to assist in determining response categories. The
report consists of nine lines, and is sent by the reporting unit using the fastest means available.
z
Line 1. Date-Time Group. The DTG that the item was discovered.
z
Line 2. Reporting Unit and Location. The unit identification code (UIC) of the reporting
activity unit and the location of the explosive hazard in an 8-digit grid coordinate.
z
Line 3. Contact Method. Provide the radio frequency, the call sign, the point of contact, and the
telephone number.
z
Line 4. Type of Munition. Note the size, quantity, type of ordnance (dropped, projected, placed,
or thrown), and subgroup, if available. Note if antihandling devices were used. Indicate the
emplacement method and type of initiation device.
z
Line 5. CBRN Contamination. - If present, be as specific as possible. (Chemical agent monitor
(CAM) detected G Agent at 3 bars; Soldiers are experiencing symptoms of Nerve agent etc.)
z
Line 6.
Resources Threatened. Report any equipment, facilities, or other assets that are
threatened.
z
Line 7.
Impact on Mission. Provide a short description of your current tactical situation and
how the presence of the explosive hazard affects your status (for example, delayed, diverted,
cancelled).
z
Line 8.
Protective Measures Taken. - Describe measures taken to protect personnel and
equipment. (Personnel evacuated to 300M, marked, Sandbag barrier constructed etc)
z
Line 9.
Recommended Priority (Immediate, Direct, Minor, No Threat). Recommend a
priority for response by EOD. Ensure that the priority requested corresponds with the tactical
situation you described on line 7 of the report (Impact on Mission). These priorities refer only to
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Chapter 4

the explosive hazards impact on your current mission. A priority of MINOR or NO THREAT
does not mean that the explosive hazard is not dangerous. (See PRIORITIES below)
Line 1.
Line 2.
Line 3.
Line 4.

DTG
Reporting activity
Contact method
Type of ordnance

Line 5.

CBRN contamination

Line 6.
Line 7.
Line 8.
Line 9.

Resources threatened
Impact on mission
Protective measures
Recommended priority

131200ZAUG04
2/505 PIR, BS13221433.
F400, Shockwave3 SGT Turner
82MM Mortar 1 EA
Yes, the Soldiers have blisters. M8 paper confirms the
presence of a chemical agent.
Personnel, Mortar Emplacement
Counter fire operations stopped.
Personnel evacuated to 300M, Sandbag barrier constructed
Immediate

Figure 4-1. Explosive Hazard Spot Report

PRIORITY BASIS
4-4. Priorities are defined by the commanders guidance. The EOD commander coordinates EOD incident
categories and priorities with the commanders staff based on the supported commanders priorities. The four
priorities established for EOD support are
z
Immediate. This priority stops the units maneuver and mission capability, or threatens critical
assets vital to the mission.
z
Direct. This priority restricts the units maneuver and mission capability, or threatens critical
assets important to the mission.
z
Minor. This priority reduces the units maneuver and mission capability, or threatens non-critical
assets of value.
z
No threat. This priority has little or no effect on unit capabilities or assets.

PRIORITIZING THE SPOT REPORT

4-5. The UXO spot report is forwarded through your chain of command. Each commander in the chain
who receives/reviews the report may change the priority to reflect the current tactical situation or projected
battle plans. It is the responsibility of each commander in the chain to ensure that UXO spot reports are
forwarded through command channels and that the proper priority is set for each report.
4-6. If a higher-level commander in the chain changes a priority, all subordinate commanders, especially
the commander of the reporting unit, must be told. Commanders must keep the following in mind: even
though they may lower a priority, the reporting unit must be able to continue its mission until help comes.
In addition to the priority status, all commanders need to be kept informed of the status of each UXO
hazard in their area.
4-7. The final priority is determined by the reporting units higher headquarters that is supported by EOD.
Based on mission, enemy, terrain and weather, troops and support available-time available (METT-T),
EOD are dispatched to respond to the hazard.

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Chapter 5

Self-Extraction from UXO Hazards

The use of submunitions and scatterable mines on the modern battlefield will
have a direct impact on mobility, survivability, and logistical support
requirements. All units must be able to maintain their mobility despite these
hazards. Our forces must be able to self-extract from submunition and scatterable
mine threats in order to survive.
EOD units are responsible for the elimination of these threats from the
battlefield, while engineer elements provide breaching and mine-clearing support
for these threats. These elements may not be readily available to all units that
receive submunition or scatterable mine attacks from the enemy. Any unit that
cannot self-extract will risk being destroyed in place by follow-on attacks.

DETECTION
5-1. Detection is the first step in extraction. Submunitions and scatterable mines are very small in
size and are difficult to detect in optimum circumstances. In some terrain, such as dense foliage, tall
grass, or uneven ground, many of them will go undetected. During periods of limited visibility or at
night, detection is almost impossible. Combat vehicle personnel traveling cross-country in a buttonedup vehicle will be at a great disadvantage, because they will not be able to see them or to avoid them.
5-2. The unit detecting a submunitions area or scatterable minefield is required to report it, mark it,
and, if so directed, breach through it. All areas will remain marked until they are cleared.

IMMEDIATE ACTIONS
5-3. When an operating area becomes contaminated with submunitions or scatterable mines, a certain
amount of confusion is understandable. Therefore, a recognized and rehearsed system of alerting
personnel to the danger and orders on how to evacuate the area are essential. Alerting systems may
include loudspeakers, radios, or runners. A combination of these systems may be the most effective.
5-4. The unit field SOP should include procedures for evacuating personnel from an area and
reestablishing operations at another location. An established and trained evacuation plan will reduce
personnel and vehicle losses. The plan must be flexible so it can be adapted to fit the different
scenarios and environments that might be encountered.
5-5. When setting up operational bases or work sites, the UXO threat must be considered. Roads are
critical for evacuation. Hard surfaced roads are the best evacuation routes and are also the easiest to
clear. The evacuation plan should include procedures for unit elements to reconnoiter and mark clear
paths or to link paths from other unit positions to their position and to the nearest hard surfaced road.
5-6. A unit that has been directly fired on must presume that more fires are coming. The unit must be
able to self-extract from the area in order to resume operations or be able to protect assets in order to
continue the assigned mission. The extraction procedure resembles an in-stride breach as outlined in
FM 3-34.210 and FM 90-13-1, or in MCWP 3-17.3 for the Marine Corps. Units that are conducting
movement operations can use route clearance procedures to force a cleared lane through the area only
as a last resort. Most units are not equipped to deal with this situation and the results could be as
devastating as the attack itself.

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Chapter 5

5-7. Combat units that have the assets to conduct an in-stride breach can do so and reduce the hazard
for follow-on forces and continue in the original direction of the march. CS and combat service support
(CSS) units must rely on their OPORD to designate alternate support areas. These units must employ
their organic assets to reconnoiter and create cleared lanes in the direction of the alternate support
location. Not all equipment may be retrievable. The emphasis should be placed on relocating personnel
and operational equipment as quickly as possible.

SITUATIONAL ASSESSMENT
5-8. After taking immediate actions to alert personnel, locate the submunitions or scatterable mines,
and provide protection for personnel and equipment, the following operational situation and tactical
factors should be assessed:
z
Effect of the delay on the mission.
z
Threat from direct and indirect fire. The risk of casualties from direct or indirect fire may be
greater than that from the submunitions or scatterable mines.
z
Type of terrain. The terrain determines the effectiveness of submunitions or scatterable
mines, their visibility, and, consequently, their ability to be detected, avoided, or
neutralized.
z
Alternate routes or positions available.
z
Degree of protection available.
z
Availability of specialized support, such as EOD or engineer teams and equipment.
5-9. After assessing the situation, three main options are available, as follows:
z
Accept the risk of casualties and continue with the assigned mission.
z
Employ tactical breaching procedures and extract to alternate routes or positions.
z
Employ preplanned alternate tactical plans according to the current OPORD.

BREACHING TECHNIQUES
5-10. Hazardous areas must be bypassed if at all possible. When bypassing is not feasible, you must
try to neutralize the submunitions and scatterable mines that prevent movement. There is no single
device or technique that will neutralize every submunition or scatterable mine in every situation. The
differences in fuzing, self-neutralization, terrain, and unit mission mean that multiple techniques must
be considered.
5-11. When employing breaching techniques, take all protective measures possible to protect
personnel and equipment. Personnel who are not directly involved should be under cover, away from
the area. Personnel who are directly involved must make use of all available cover. These approved
extraction techniques are listed from least to most hazardous and should be considered for execution in
this order:
z
Perform area reconnaissance, and mark a cleared route.
z
Use engineer equipment to remove or destroy items.
z
Destroy items using explosive charges.
z
Contain the item by building protective works.
z
Destroy items using direct-fire weapons.

DANGER
Employing breaching techniques on ordnance other than
submunitions or scatterable mines is not recommended. The
amount of explosives involved would create more of a hazard
to your operations than the UXO itself.

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Self-Extraction from UXO Hazards

WARNING
Prior to employing breaching techniques, make sure that
none of the items are filled with chemical, radiological, or
biological agents.

UXO CONSIDERATION FOR SELF EVACUATION

5-12. After indirect fire attack immediate action drills for self extraction must include a plan to
mitigate the hazards of UXO.
5-13. If you enter a minefield or UXO saturated area, evacuate by the same route you entered, marking
the route if situation permits.

ENGINEER EQUIPMENT (HEAVY-FORCE BREACHING)

5-14. Using engineer equipment is the preferred method of breaching small submunitions and
scatterable mines. This procedure allows for the quickest clearance of an evacuation route. Suitable
equipment includes a bulldozer (with mine clearance armor protection if possible), deployable
universal combat earthmover (DEUCE), combat vehicle mounted with a mine clearing blade or roller,
or an armored combat earthmover (ACE). If an unarmored vehicle is used (such as a bulldozer or a
grader), the operators cab must be protected by sandbags.
5-15. Four major disadvantages to heavy-force breaching are as follows:
z
Operators may be killed or injured.
z
Equipment may be damaged. If either happens, extraction through the area will be
hampered.
z
Equipment may only partially clear the area, requiring further clearance procedures.
z
Equipment may bury some submunitions or scatterable mines, which would keep them from
being detected while using the evacuation route.

EXPLOSIVE CHARGES
MINE-CLEARING LINE CHARGE
5-16. The mine-clearing line charger (MICLIC) is a rocket-propelled explosive line charge used to
reduce minefield containing single impulse, pressure-activated AT mines and mechanically activated
AP mines. It has limited effectiveness against magnetically activated mines, including scatterable
mines and those containing multiple-impulse or delay-time fuzes.
5-17. The MICLIC will explosively clear a path through an area. Several MICLICS may be required in
the same area to ensure that a wide enough path is cleared.
5-18. Three major disadvantages to using MICLICs are as follows:
z
The explosive charges may not be close enough to the submunition or scatterable mine to
cause destruction. This can result in kick outs where submunitions or scatterable mines
can be thrown away from the detonation, possibly towards your position.
z
Further reconnaissance of the area is required prior to using the route for evacuation in order
to detect those submunitions or scatterable mines that are still in place after using MICLIC.
z
MICLIC cannot be used if high order detonation or explosives in the area is not acceptable.

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Chapter 5

PLACED EXPLOSIVE CHARGE

5-19. This is the most effective way to clear an evacuation route. If at all possible, the explosive
charges should be remotely placed to the side of the UXO as close as possible without touching it. If it
can not be done remotely hand emplacement of the charge is the most hazardous and time consuming
procedure. The explosive charge should be large enough to consume the item and placed to the side of
the UXO that is closest to the units position. This will direct most of the fragmentation away from the
unit. Enough time delay should be used to allow personnel to return to a safe area prior to the
detonation.
5-20. Four major disadvantages to using placed charges are as follows:
z
They are very labor intensive to use and expose personnel to a greater risk, especially if the
submunitions use magnetic, delay, or trip-wire fuzing.
z
Their use is very slow and time consuming, because all items must be detected, marked, and
destroyed individually.
z
They cannot be used if detonation of the submunitions or scatterable mines will cause
unacceptable damage to the operational area and/or equipment.
z
They should not be used in heavy concentrations of submunitions or scatterable mines. The
detonations will cause kick outs.

CONTAINMENT
5-21. For containment see Chapter 3.
z
There is one major disadvantage to containment. Building barricades is time consuming and
thereby exposes a large number of personnel to the UXO.

UXO DIRECT-FIRE WEAPONS

5-22. This is the least preferred method of clearance. Submunitions and scatterable mines can be
destroyed or disabled by the use of direct-fire service weapons. The goal of this procedure is to
produce a disabling reaction that rapidly reduces or eliminates the designed fuze functioning of the
submunition or scatterable mine. Service weapons such as the 5.56 millimeter, the 7.62 millimeter, the
.50 caliber, and the 25 millimeter will most likely produce the desired effect. The person firing the
service weapon should approach the UXO only close enough to be able to fire accurately. However,
this person should never be closer than 300 meters to the item. When performing the direct-fire
procedure, the aiming point is center mass. Single shots should be fired until the item is hit. On some
larger items, multiple hits may be required to be sure that the submunition or scatterable mine has been
disabled. Frontal protection is required for mounted and dismounted personnel. Figure 5-1 shows the
dismounted procedure, while Figure 5-2, shows the light-vehicle mounted procedure with sandbags
being used for frontal protection. If several persons are being used to clear a large area, ensure that
each person is protected sufficiently from all areas. No one person should be closer than 300 meters to
any item being engaged.
5-23. This technique has many variables and must only be performed by personnel with the
appropriate training. Certain smaller caliber weapons will have little to no effect on some ordnance
items and leave it in a more hazardous state. If personnel are trained in UXO direct-fire techniques this
by no means implies that they are qualified to use direct-fire techniques for IEDs or other specific
ordnance items.
5-24. Five major disadvantages to direct-fire destruction are as follows:
z
It is very slow and time consuming. Each item must be individually located, and each
person can only engage one target at a time.
z
Some submunitions are too small to engage effectively with direct-fire weapons from a
distance of 25 meters. The terrain has a major affect on this procedure. Because
submunitions and scatterable mines are so small, it does not take very much vegetation or
loose dirt to hide them.

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Self-Extraction from UXO Hazards

This technique is applicable only to high explosive filled munitions and can be used only
when the possibility of high order detonation of the targeted UXO is tolerable. High order
detonation can cause sympathetic detonation of other munitions.
The detonation of the submunition or scatterable mine can result in kick outs where
submunitions or scatterable mines can be thrown away from the detonation, possibly
towards your position.
If the ordnance item is damaged and not destroyed it may be more sensitive and the
disrupted components may be more hazardous.

Figure 5-1. Dismounted direct-fire procedure

Figure 5-2. Light-vehicle mounted direct-fire procedure

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Chapter 6

UXO Response to the Battlefield

EOD units are responsible for identifying, rendering safe, recovering, evaluating,
disposal, threat mitigation, and reporting (EOD and Intelligence) of unexploded US
and foreign explosive ordnance. This includes chemical, biological, and radiological
weapons which have been fired, dropped, or placed in such a manner so as to
constitute a hazard to installations, personnel, materiel or operations. The mission of
EOD is to eliminate or reduce hazards and to protect the commanders combat power.

CAPABILITIES
z
z
z
z
z
z
z

Render Safe UXO hazards.

Identify UXO hazards.
Destroy UXO hazards.
Move UXOs to Safe Holding or Disposal areas within the limitations of their organic
transportation Assets.
Perform Technical Intelligence on new or first seen ordnance items.
Perform post-blast forensic analysis.
Perform specialized demolition techniques and procedures.

SUPPORT REQUIREMENTS
z
z
z
z

Security forces.
Medical Support.
Fire Fighting Support.
Supported unit provides and builds protective measures.

OTHER SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS

z
z
z

Combat Engineer Companies.

Military Intelligence Company/Teams.
Army Explosive Ordnance Clearance Agents (EOCA).

ARMY EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE CLEARANCE AGENT (EOCA)

6-1. The design of the Army EOCA is to enhance the engineers ability to assure mobility and provide
maneuver units with a limited alternative capability to counter unexploded ordnance. Army EOCAs are
combat engineers who have attended and graduated from the Army EOCA course. The Army Explosive
Ordnance Clearance Agent (EOCA) Identification Guide provides more information on Army EOCA. To
perform in an Army EOCA capacity, these Soldiers must pass the Army EOCA course at the Ordnance
Munitions and Electronic Maintenance School (OMEMS), Redstone Arsenal, Alabama.
6-2. Army EOCA personnel are trained to perform limited battlefield disposal of UXOs as outlined in
Army EOCA Identification Guide and JOA UXO supplemental list. If the UXO is out of the scope of
operations for the Army EOCA, EOD Soldiers must respond. Army EOCA Soldiers can assist EOD Soldiers
in disposing of other EH as requested. Properly trained and certified Army EOCA Soldiers capabilities
include:
z
UXO reconnaissance. Army EOCA personnel are trained to perform detailed reconnaissance of
suspected UXO.
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Chapter 6

z
z

UXO identification. Army EOCA can perform limited identification of items listed in EOCA
Identification Guide and JOA UXO supplemental list. Items that the Army EOCA cannot
positively identify must be reported to EOD personnel.
UXO area marking. Army EOCA personnel mark UXO area in accordance with the standard
UXO marking system.
Protective works. Army EOCA can provide blast and fragmentation danger area of identified
UXOs. Army EOCA may provide estimated blast and fragmentation danger area for items
similar to but not included in Army EOCA Identification Guide and JOA UXO supplemental
list. Army EOCA will advise the on scene commander on recommended personnel and
equipment protection measures. When the commander determines that certain personnel or
equipment can not be removed from the hazard area, protective works must be established to
protect those personnel and assets from the effects of the UXO. Army EOCA will recommend
and supervise the appropriate protective works to be completed.
UXO Disposal. Army EOCA personnel are authorized to destroy by detonation individual UXOs
identified in Army EOCA Identification Guide and JOA UXO supplemental list.

ARMY EOCA LIMITATIONS

z
z
z

6-3.

No reconnaissance or handling of IEDs or Large Vehicle Improvised Explosive Devices

incidents.
Can only perform CEA operations under the direct supervision of EOD personnel.
Cannot move, combine, and/or destroy multiple UXOs.

Army EOCA Soldiers are not to be used for explosive hazard response calls.

6-4. The US Marine Corps does not have Explosive Ordnance Clearance Agent and relies on EOD to clear
UXOs and IEDs, unless passing through an area containing UXO or IEDs is deemed a mobility requirement by
the commander, in which case engineers will create a breach through the affected area much the same as they
would breach through an explosive obstacle on the battlefield.
Emergency destruction of CEA that is 90mm and smaller is taught to Marine Corps engineer officers
and NCOs at Marine Corps Engineer School. Positive identification of all ordnance items to be destroyed is
required and a necessity must exist to justify the destruction of CEA by engineers; for example, in order to
prevent ordnance from falling into enemy hands. Key portions of the course taught at Marine Corps Engineer
School (MCES) pertaining to destruction of CEA are identification of ordnance items, calculating the net
explosive weight of the CEA plus the charge used to destroy it, calculating the minimum safe distance needed
to destroy CEA, and the use of a decision process when assessing a CEA situation.
As new counter-IED technologies become available, for example, the Buffalo and MARCbot robot,
MCES plans to include the TTPs required for successful employment in its programs of instruction.

6-2

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Appendix A

Ammunition Color Codes

The color codes and markings in this appendix are for informational purposes only.
They are provided to help you identify the different types of UXO. Keep in mind that
each country that manufactures munitions has devised its own color codes.
Remember do not approach a UXO any closer than necessary to make an immediate
identification. Remember also, that you are not responsible for determining UXO
fillers.
The ammunition color codes in Tables A-1, A-2, and A-3 are used by the US and
NATO. The ammunition color codes in Tables A-4 and A-5 are used by the former
Soviet Union. The markings used on Soviet chemical munitions are in Table A-6.

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A-1

Appendix A

Table A-1. US and NATO color codes

A-2

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Ammunition Color Codes

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A-3

Appendix A

A-4

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Ammunition Color Codes

Table A-2. Former Soviet Union color codes for bombs

Nose Band

Body Band

Type

Green
Green
Orange
Blue
Red

Blue
Blue and Green

Fragmentation
Fragmentation and Chemical
Semi-armor Piercing
Armor Piercing
Incendiary
Incendiary Dispenser
Persistent Chemical
Non-persistent Chemical
Parachute Flare
Rocket Assisted
Practice

Red
Green
White
Blue
Red

Blue
Red
Green
Green
White
Black
White

Table A-3. Former Soviet Union color codes for projectiles

Color Codes (Bands)

Type

Red
Blue
Black
White
Yellow
Khaki
One Green Band
Two Green Bands

Incendiary
Concrete Piercing
Smoke
Illumination
Ball Shrapnel
Bar Shrapnel
Non-persistent Agent
Persistent Agent

Table A-4. Former Soviet Union markings for chemical munitions

13 July 2006

Marking

Chemical Filler

P-4
P-5
PC
P-10
P-15
TP

White Phosphorus
Mustard Agent
Lewisite Agent
Phosgene Agent
Adamsite (DM)
Thermite

FM 4-30.51

A-5

This page intentionally left blank.

Appendix B

Dropped Ordnance Identification and Net Explosive

Weight (NEW)
BOMBS

Figure B-1. Bomb, general purpose, 2,000 pound

NEW: 1,000 pounds

Figure B-2. Bomb, general purpose 500 kilogram

NEW: 550 pounds

13 July 2006

FM 4-30.51

B-1

Appendix B

Figure B-3. Bomb general purpose 250 pound

NEW: 125 pounds

Figure B-4. Bomb general purpose 100 kilogram

NEW: 110 pounds

NOTE: This dispenser is loaded with BLU-97/B submunitions. However, it can be loaded
with a variety of submunitions.
Figure B-5. Submunition dispenser CBU-87/B
NEW: Not Applicable

B-2

FM 4-30.51

13 July 2006

Figure B-6. AP/AMAT submunitions

NEW: less than 0.5 pounds per item

Figure B-7. AP/AMAT submunitions (conventional)

NEW: less than 7 pounds per item

13 July 2006

FM 4-30.51

B-3

Appendix B

Figure B-8. AMAT/AT submunitions (conventional)

NEW: Less than 2 pounds per item

B-4

FM 4-30.51

13 July 2006

Figure B-9. Soviet style AMAT/AT submunitions (conventional)

NEW: less than 2 pounds per item

Figure B-10. Area denial submunitions: ADAM (left), RAAMS (middle) and BLU-54/B (right)
NEW: RAAMS 2 pounds, ADM and BLU-54/B less than 0.5 pounds

13 July 2006

FM 4-30.51

B-5

Appendix B

Figure B-11. Area denial submunitions: M74 (left, BLU-91/B Gator (right) and AT-2 (rear)
NEW: 2 pounds per item

B-6

FM 4-30.51

13 July 2006

Projected Ordnance Identification and Net Explosive Weight (NEW)

Appendix C

Projected Ordnance Identification and Net Explosive

Weight (NEW)
PROJECTILES

Figure C-1. Spin stabilized projectiles, 105 millimeter and smaller

NEW: less than 8 pounds per item

13 July 2006

FM 4-30.51

C-1

Appendix C

Figure C-2. Spin stabilized projectiles 130 millimeter

NEW: less than 20 pounds per item

Figure C-3. Spin stabilized projectiles 105 millimeter high explosive plastic (HEP) (top) and
100 millimeter armor piercing (AP) (bottom)
NEW: less than 15 pounds for the 105 millimeter projectile and 2 pounds for the
100 millimeter projectile

C-2

FM 4-30.51

13 July 2006

Projected Ordnance Identification and Net Explosive Weight (NEW)

Figure C-4. Spin stabilized projectiles 180

millimeter (left) and 155 millimeter (right)
NEW: less than 20 pounds per item

13 July 2006

FM 4-30.51

Figure C-5. Spin stabilized projectile 8

inch HE
NEW: less than 40 pounds

C-3

Appendix C

Figure C-6. Spin stabilized projectile 165 millimeter HEP

NEW: less than 35 pounds

Figure C-7. Fin stabilized projectiles 90 millimeter (bottom) and 120 millimeter high
explosive antitank (HEAT) (top)
NEW: less than 5 pounds per item

C-4

FM 4-30.51

13 July 2006

Projected Ordnance Identification and Net Explosive Weight (NEW)

Figure C-8. Fin stabilized projectiles

NEW: less than 5 pounds per item

Figure C-9. Folding fin stabilized HEAT projectiles

NEW: less than 5 pounds per item

13 July 2006

FM 4-30.51

C-5

Appendix C

MORTARS

Figure C-10. Fin stabilized mortars 60 millimeter and below

NEW: less than 5 pounds per item

Figure C-11. Fin stabilized mortars 82 millimeter (top) and 100 millimeter recoilless rifle
projectile (bottom)
NEW: less than 5 pounds per item

C-6

FM 4-30.51

13 July 2006

Projected Ordnance Identification and Net Explosive Weight (NEW)

Figure C-12. Fin stabilized mortars 81 Millimeter and 120 millimeter

NEW: less than 5 pounds per item

Figure C-13. Spin stabilized mortars 4.2 HE (bottom) and illumination (top)
NEW: less than 10 pounds per item

13 July 2006

FM 4-30.51

C-7

Appendix C

ROCKETS

Figure C-14. Spin stabilized rockets 128 millimeter (left) and 132 millimeter (right)
NEW: less than 10 pounds per item

Figure C-15. Fin stabilized HEAT rockets

NEW: less than 3 pounds per item

C-8

FM 4-30.51

13 July 2006

Projected Ordnance Identification and Net Explosive Weight (NEW)

Figure C-16. Fin stabilized rocket 3.5 inch HEAT

NEW: less than 5 pounds per item

Figure C-17. Fin stabilized rocket

NEW: less than 10 pounds per item

Figure C-18. Fin stabilized rocket 2.75 inch

NEW: less than 10 pounds per item

Figure C-19. Fin stabilized rocket 132 millimeter

NEW: less than 20 pounds per item

13 July 2006

FM 4-30.51

C-9

Appendix C

Figure C-20. Fin stabilized rocket 122 millimeter

NEW: less than 20 pounds per item

GUIDED MISSILES

Figure C-21. Dragon guided missile

NEW: less than 10 pounds per item

C-10

FM 4-30.51

13 July 2006

Projected Ordnance Identification and Net Explosive Weight (NEW)

Figure C-22. TOW guided missile

NEW: less than 10 pounds per item

Figure C-23. HAWK guided missile

NEW: less than 40 pounds per item

13 July 2006

FM 4-30.51

C-11

Appendix C

RIFLE GRENADES

Figure C-24. AP rifle grenades

NEW: less than 1 pound per item

Figure C-25. HEAT rifle grenades

NEW: less than 3 pounds per item

C-12

FM 4-30.51

13 July 2006

Projected Ordnance Identification and Net Explosive Weight (NEW)

Figure C-26. Former Soviet Union rifle grenades, RPG models HEAT
NEW: less than 5 pounds per item

Figure C-27. Former Yugoslavia rifle grenades HEAT (bottom) and HE (top)
NEW: less than 5 pound

13 July 2006

FM 4-30.51

C-13

This page intentionally left blank.

Appendix D

Thrown Ordnance Identification and Net Explosive Weight

(NEW)
FRAGMENTATION GRENADES

Figure D-1. Fragmentation grenades

NEW: less than 2 pounds per item

13 July 2006

FM 4-30.51

D-1

Appendix D

ANTITANK GRENADES

Figure D-2. HEAT grenades

NEW: less than 2 pounds per item

SMOKE GRENADES

NOTE: These grenades do not have a NEW concern, although bursting WP grenades have a
15-meter bursting radius.
Figure D-3. Smoke grenades burning type (left) and bursting type (middle and right)
NEW: Not applicable

D-2

FM 4-30.51

13 July 2006

Thrown Ordnance Identification and Net Explosive Weight (NEW)

Figure D-4. Riot control CS grenades

NEW: Not applicable

ILLUMINATION GRENADES

Figure D-5. Illumination grenade

NEW: Not applicable

13 July 2006

FM 4-30.51

D-3

This page intentionally left blank.

Appendix E

Placed Ordnance Identification and Net Explosive Weight

(NEW)
ANTIPERSONNEL MINES

Figure E-1. AP land mines

NEW: less than 0.5 pound per item

Figure E-2. AP land mines

NEW: less than 2 pounds per item
13 July 2006

FM 4-30.51

E-1

Appendix E

ANTITANK MINES

Figure E-3. AT/anti-vehicular land mines

NEW: less than 15 pounds per item

Figure E-4. AT/anti-vehicular land mines

NEW: less than 20 pounds per item

E-2

FM 4-30.51

13 July 2006

Placed Ordnance Identification and Net Explosive Weight (NEW)

Figure E-5. AT/anti-vehicular land mines

NEW: less than 6 pounds per item

Figure E-6. AT/anti-vehicular land mines

NEW: less than 15 pounds per item

Figure E-7. AT/anti-vehicular land mines

NEW: less than 15 pounds per item

13 July 2006

FM 4-30.51

E-3

Appendix E

Figure E-8. AT/anti-vehicular land mines

NEW: less than 22 pounds per item

E-4

FM 4-30.51

13 July 2006

Glossary
Acronym/Term
AMAT

Definition
antimateriel

AP

armor piercing

AP

antipersonnel

APFSDS
AT
BFA
CAM
CBRNE
CEA
CS

armor-piercing fin-stabilized, discarding sabot

antitank
battlefield functional area
chemical agent monitor
chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and high yield explosive
captured enemy ammunition
combat support

CSS

combat service support

DOD

Department of Defense

DP

dual purpose

DU

depleted uranium

EH

explosive hazards

EMR
EOCA

electromagnetic radiation
explosive ordnance clearance agents

EOD

explosive ordnance disposal

EOR

explosive ordnance reconnaissance

FASCAM
FM
FMFM
GTA
HE
HEAT
HEP

family of scatterable mines

field manual
fleet marine force manual
graphic training aid
high explosive
high explosive antitank
high explosive plastic

HQ

headquarters

IED

improvised explosive devices

MAGTF

Marine Air ground task force

MCRP

Marine Corps

MCWP

Marine Corps warfighting publication

MEDEVAC

medical evacuation

METT-T

mission, enemy, terrain and weather, troops and support availabletime

available

MICLIC

mine clearing line charge

NATO
13 July 2006

North Atlantic Treaty Organization

FM 4-30.51

Glossary-1

Glossary

NEW

net explosive weight

OMEMS

Ordnance Munitions and Electronic Maintenance School

OPORD

operation order

PATRIOT
RAAMS
RPG
SMCT

remote antiarmor mine syatem

rocket propelled grenade
Soldiers Manual of Common Tasks

SOI

signal operating instructions

SOP

standing operating procedures

STANAG
STP

standardization agreement
Soldier Training Publication

TASC

Training Aids Support Center

TOW

tube-launched optically-tracked wire-guided

TRADOC
US
UIC
UXO
WP

Glossary-2

phased array tracking radar intercept on traget

Training and Doctrine Command

United States
unit identification code
unexploded ordnance
white phosphorus

FM 4-30.51

13 July 2006

References
SOURCES USED
These are the sources quoted or paraphrased in this publication.

JOINT PUBLICATIONS
CJCSM 3500.04C, Universal Joint Task List (UJTL). 1 Jul 2002
JP 1-02, Department of Defense Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms, 12 Apr 2001

ARMY PUBLICATIONS
AR 75-15, Responsibilities and Procedures for Explosive Ordnance Disposal, 22 Feb 2005
FM 1-02, Operational Terms and Graphics, 21 Sep 2004
FM 3-0, Operations, 14 Jun 2001
FMI 3-07.22, Counterinsurgency Operations, Aug 2004
FM 3-34, Engineer Operations, 2 Jan 2004
FM 4-0, Combat Service Support, 29 Aug 2003
FM 5-0, Army Planning and Orders Production, 20 Jan 2005
FM 5-34, Engineer Field Data, 30 Aug 1999
FM 9-15, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Service and Unit Operations, 20 Mar 1989
FM 20-32, Mine/Counter Mine Operations, 1 April 2005
FM 34-130, Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield, 8 Jul 1994
FM 90-13-1, Combined Arms Breaching Techniques, 28 Feb 1991
GTS 9-12-1, Unexploded Ordnance Procedures
Instructional Video No. 710288 The UXO Hazard
Safety Video No. 709919 Danger UXO
STP 21-1-SMCT, Soldiers Manual of Common Tasks, Skill Level 1, 11 Oct 2005
STP 21-I-MQS, Military Qualification Standards I Manual of Common Tasks (Recommissioning
Requirements), 31 May 1990.
STP 21-II-MQS, Military Qualification Standards II Manual of Common Tasks (for Lieutenants and
Captains), 31 January 1991.

MARINE PUBLICATIONS
FMFM 13-8, MAGTF Explosive Ordnance Disposal, 20 Dec 1993.
FMFRP 13-5, Engineer Field Data, 30 Aug 1999.
MCWP 3-17.3, MAGTF Breaching Operations, 13 June 1994.

DOCUMENTS NEEDED - NONE

READINGS RECOMMENDED NONE

13 July 2006

FM 4-30.51

References-1

This page intentionally left blank.

Index

Index
A
Ammunition Color Codes, A-1
Antipersonnel Mines, 2-21
antitank, C-4
Antitank Grenades, 2-19
Antitank Mines, 2-22
AP, C-12, E-1
ARMY EOCA LIMITATIONS,
6-2
ARMY EXPLOSIVE
ORDNANCE CLEARANCE
AGENT, 6-1
AT, E-2, E-3, E-4
Attached Dispensers, 2-6

B
Barricade, 3-2
Barricade Types
Circular; Semicircular, 3-5
Bombs, 2-1
BREACHING TECHNIQUES,
5-2

C
CAPABILITIES, 6-1
Complete circular placement of
barricade, 3-5
Containment, 5-4

D
DEPLETED URANIUM (DU),
2-12
DETECTION, 5-1
DISPENSERS, 2-5
Dropped Dispensers, 2-6
DROPPED ORDNANCE, 2-1

E
ENGINEER EQUIPMENT
(HEAVY-FORCE
BREACHING), 5-3
Evacuate, 3-2
EXPLOSIVE CHARGES, 5-3
EXPLOSIVE HAZARDS SPOT
REPORT, 4-1

F
Former Soviet Union color codes
for bombs, A-5
Former Soviet Union color codes
for projectiles, A-5

13 July 2006

Former Soviet Union markings

for chemical munitions, A-5
Fragmentation, A-5, D-1
Fragmentation Grenades, 2-18
Fuzes, 2-3

G
GENERAL SAFETY
GUIDELINES, 1-1
grenades, C-12, C-13, D-1, D-2,
D-3
GUIDED MISSILES, 2-16

I
Identification of DU UXO, 2-12
illumination, C-7
Illumination, A-5, D-3
Illumination Grenades, 2-20
IMMEDIATE ACTIONS, 5-1
Interlocking sandbags, 3-4
Isolate, 3-2

L
land mines, E-1, E-2, E-3, E-4
Large UXO, 3-4

M
MARK UXO, 3-6
Marking, A-5
Medium UXO, 3-4
Mine-Clearing Line Charge, 5-3
MORTARS, 2-14

N
net explosive weights (NEW), 21
NEW, C-3, C-4, C-5, C-6, C-7,
C-8, C-9, C-10, C-11, C-12,
C-13, D-1, D-2, E-1, E-3
nonessential personnel, 3-2

O
Offensive Grenades, 2-19
OTHER SUPPORTING
ORGANIZATIONS, 6-1

P
Placed Explosive Charge, 5-4
PLACED ORDNANCE, 2-21

FM 4-30.51

Placement and Size of

Barricades, 3-3
PRIORITIZING THE SPOT
REPORT, 4-2
PRIORITY BASIS, 4-2
PROJECTED ORDNANCE, 210
projectiles, C-4, C-5
PROJECTILES, 2-10
PROTECTIVE MEASURES, 32
PURPOSE, vii

R
Recognize UXO, 2-1
Report the UXO Hazard, 4-1
RIFLE GRENADES, 2-17
rocket, C-9, C-10
rockets, C-8
ROCKETS, 2-14

S
SCOPE, vii
Self-Extraction From UXO
Hazards, 5-1
Semicircular placement of
barricade, 3-5
SITUATIONAL
ASSESSMENT, 5-2
Small UXO, 3-4
Smoke, A-5, D-2
Smoke Grenades, 2-19
stabilized, C-3, C-4, C-5, C-6, C7, C-8, C-9, C-10
STABILIZING DEVICES, 2-3
Standard UXO marker, 3-6
SUBMUNITIONS, 2-6
SUPPORT REQUIREMENTS,
6-1

T
Take Immediate Action, 3-1
Thrown, D-1
THROWN ORDNANCE, 2-18
TRAINING STRATEGY, viii

U
US and NATO color codes, A-2
USER INFORMATION, viii
UXO CONSIDERATION FOR
SELF EVACUATION, 5-3
UXO Direct-Fire Weapons, 5-4

UXO LOCATIONS AND

THREATS, 1-1
UXO Response to the
Battlefield, 6-1

Index-2

W
Wall barricade placement, 3-6

FM 4-30.51

13 July 2006

FM 4-30.51 (FM 21-16)

MCRP 3-17.2A
13 July 2006

By Order of the Secretary of the Army:

PETER J. SCHOOMAKER
General, United States Army
Chief of Staff

Official:

JOYCE E. MORROW
Administrative Assistant to the
Secretary of the Army
0617302

DISTRIBUTION:

Active Army, Army National Guard, and U. S. Army Reserve: Not to be

distributed. Electronic Media Only.

PIN: 083358-000