Chapter 2. METHODS OF DESTRUCTION

TM 43-0002-1

T. O. 13C3.1-10

NAVAIR 13-1.19

Chapter 2

METHODS OF DESTRUCTION

Section I. DESCRIPTION AND ORDER OF

DESTRUCTION METHODS

2-1. Self-Destruction Devices.

2-3. Explosive Demolition.

WARNING

Self-destruction devices, which are normally

Destruction of equipment using explosive shell be

activated by a switch, are built-in assemblies that my

performed in an area free of personnel to prevent injury

partially or completely destroy item to which the devices

that could be caused by flying fragments.

are affixed. A self-destruction device is usually well

marked for identification. When installed, re self-

For information on the use of explosives to destroy

destruction devices should be activated nod allowed to

equipment, refer to FM 5-25, Explosives and Demolition.

function prior to using explosives or any other destruction

NOTE

methods. This action will permit the devices to destroy

The placement of a demolition charge can mean the

the applicable equipment and prevent sensitive parts or

difference between accomplishing minor damage or

classified documentation from being blown into safe

complete destruction of equipment

areas where they might be recovered by an enemy.

2-4. Mechanical.

2-2. Fire.

Air delivery equipment can be destroyed by

WARNING

mechanical means using suitable tools for hammering,

Exercise extreme care when using

prying, cutting, ripping, or slashing as specified in

petroleum

products

destroy

paragraphs 2-7 and 2-9.

equipment by fire, as these materials are

highly flammable.

2-5. Natural Surroundings

Disposal or denial of equipment to an enemy my be

The destruction of equipment by use of fire is an 2-5.

accomplished through use of natural surroundings.

effective method of destroying low-melting-point metal

Accessible vital parts of assemblies may be removed

items and equipment made from textile materials.

sad scattered through dense foilage, buried in dirt or

However, mechanical destruction should be completed

sand, or thrown into a lake, stream, or other body of

first, whenever possible, before initiating destruction by

water. Total submersion of equipment in a body of water

fire. When items to be destroyed are made of metal,

will provide water damage as well as concealment. Salt

textile materials should be packed under tad around the

water will inflict extensive damage to air delivery

items, then soaked with a flammable petroleum product

equipment.

and ignited. Proper concentration of equipment which is

suitable for burning will provide a hotter and more

destructive fire.

Section II. SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR AIR

DELIVERY EQUIPMENT DESTRUCTION

2-6. Airdrop Electronic Guidance Control Systems.

hammer or other similar tool or buried.

a. When the tactical situation and time permits, an

airdrop electronic guidance control system, which may

b. If the situation prohibits the destruction procedures

include a transmitter and receiver, will be destroyed by

as prescribed in paragraph above, then after the crystals

mechanical means and fire or disposed of by bury- ing.

and batteries are removed, *a -pound explosive charge

However, prior to initiating destruction methods, insure

shall be affixed to the back of each transmitter and

the crystals and batteries are removed from the

receiver, and equipment destructions will be completed

transmitting and receiving units and destroyed with a

by detonation of the charges.

2-1