In combat zones like Iraq and Afghanistan soldiers are placed in many hazardous conditions. Even driving down the road is filled with danger as insurgents place roadside bomb. An article from "National Defense Magazine" discusses the steps the US military has taken to protect the troops.
The article says the application of armor on the underside of military vehicles has saved many lives. This armor is a glass ceramic composite used on a v hull shape. This application has proven effective in deflecting explosive forces away. The glass ceramic composite called Resistan can withstand the high temperatures and is highly resistant to corrosive damage.
My brother is a Combat engineer, and he served two tours in Iraq. His main job was to drive that front vehicle in the caravan to attempt to set off mines. I'm not sure if his vehicle had these ceramic hulls, but if it did, i'm thankful for that. He had his axle blown off(20 yards away) at one point.
ReplyDeleteThis has always been a big problem. I can't remember the movie, but they are clearing a mine field with a giant rotating drum with chains attached to it. It's crude, but it works. Unfortunately, that takes time. I'm curious about how much impact it can take and continue driving. I'm sure the v-shape deters some impact, but does the vehicle still flip if the explosive is strong enough? Also, how do the wheels get protected? I'm sure the main purpose is to protect the people, but if they have to get out they are in danger.
ReplyDeleteYes, this is interesting. Are these on most vehicles now? A while ago there was huge concern because the military wasn't providing this kind of protection for most troops. Has that changed?
ReplyDeleteNot on all vehicles. The military had a vehicle made called the MRAP (Mine Resistant Ambush Protected). These vehicles have the v-hull design and are slowly being putted into service since 2007. Currently approximately 20000 of these vehicles are in active uses. I believe with the media coverage about the war and the condition of our troops their protection is of the utmost importances.
ReplyDelete