Antipersonnel Obstacle Breaching System . - APOBS - National Training Center NTC - Brief Article

by Josue A. Pinos

The APOBS is now a system of choice of rotational engineer units at NTC. The APOBS, which is relatively new to conventional forces in the Army, was live-fired during NTC's Mine Awareness Training in March 2003. NTC continues to develop and improve mobility and countermobility tactics employed by combat engineers. This system provides commanders with another alternative to reduce antipersonnel obstacles. Opposing Force (OPFOR) TM-89 mines directly under the line charge will be destroyed also because of their seismically influenced fuse.

Characteristics, Capabilities, and Features

* Two-person portable

* Total weight of 123.5 pounds

* Clears a 2-meter by 45-meter path through antipersonnel mines and wire obstacles

* Provides a 35-meter standoff

* Operates in delay or command mode

* Can be fired in under 2 minutes in the delay mode

* Simple and rapid operation

Highlights of Rules of Engagement

* The APOBS team executes proper setup procedures.

* The APOBS team simulates pulling the pin and waits 15 seconds before firing the grapnel cartridge provided with the APOBS trainer.

* If a grapnel cartridge is not available, an OC fires a white star cluster to simulate the rocket launch.

* Eight seconds later the OC will detonate a grenade simulator to replicate the detonation of the line charge.

* The OC will administratively clear any antipersonnel mines, antitank mines, and wire, beginning 35 meters from the point of launch and providing a 2-meter by 45-meter footpath.

* The unit must clear any mines left in the path using appropriate proofing/reduction techniques.

* Unprotected personnel within the 75-meter surface danger zone of the line charge will be assessed as casualties.

NTC offers a great opportunity for employing the APOBS.

POC is SFC Josue A. Pinos (SW13B), (760) 380-7056 or DSN 470-7056, e-mail <sidewinder13b@irwin.army.mil>.