Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/1365706
the operator to control the X-ray system. After the X-ray imagery is obtained, it may undergo basic processing. Images can also be taken at several different angles. If it turns out that an explosive device is contained inside the given object, the imagery may be used to develop neutralization tactics. Since some elements of the employed tactics, the analytical stage, and the decision-making process shall not be described within the present article. Let us assume that an IED has been found inside the backpack. The GMP commander then decides on the possible neutralization meth- ods, and location of neutralization, taking the circumstances into the account, during the decision-making process. A broad array of tools is available here - as you may know already, after reading the article in the previous issue of the FRAG OUT! magazine. Let us assume that a decision is made to use a disrupter device. This allows the EOD team to attack a specific, yet a relevant component of IED, to neutralize the whole device. The disruptor is a specific type of firearm that uses the energy of gas that is created through an explosion of the propellant. The difference here is that the disruptor's ammunition has no primer that is initiated by a firing pin. An electrical initiator is used, with the detonator placed inside the brass. The detonation takes place via a bus, and it is initiated by an electrical impulse. The projectiles may vary, depending on the disruptor type - from compressed gas, water, to physical, kinetic pro- jectiles, of varying hardnesses and shapes. Many disruptor systems utilize over-caliber projectiles designed to cut or crush the engaged objects. The disruptor can be carried by an EOD technician in a suit, or it can also be installed on the robot. Contemporary disruptors are recoilless and can be integrated into the robots. The aiming process is done thanks to a laser pointer. Robot cameras are used here. The aiming point is selected based on the X-ray imagery analysis. If you were unaware as to how meticulous one needs to be, when using this method, imagine that you are holding an X-ray image of the backpack, and using that image alone you must specifically point to a location where an element with a size of 1 square inch is located. Imagine that the aiming is done, as you are several hundred meters from the robot and the facility, not seeing the object, and using just cameras and other instruments. You have only one shot at this. Any error may lead to a serious explosion. Not only could that detonation destroy the equipment nearby (worth a couple of millions), but it could also damage the property in the direct vicinity. Let us assume, however, that the neutralization has been successful, and that the IED was neutralized. Operational and Investigation Process Following the neutralization, the EOD technicians actively gather the evidence required to find the perpetrator and to prove him guilty. Then, samples of the explosive are collected for lab tests. They are a valuable source of information on the scale of the threat for people and property. Then, the qualification of the crime can take place. The original IED is often reverse-engineered. A copy is also created and used for field tests. ANALYSIS