Chapter 2. METHODS OF DESTRUCTION

CHAPTER 2

METHODS OF DESTRUCTION

Section I.

2-1. Introduction.

This chapter contains a brief de-

demolitions to destroy equipment. Unit training may also

scription of the methods used to destroy chemical

include demonstrations on how to build fires and use

weapons, defense equipment, parts, and supplies in the

incendiary grenades to burn equipment. All demonstra-

field. Methods that can be used are mechanical means,

tions in use of demolitions and incendiary grenades

demolition, fire, gunfire, improper operation, and use of

must be conducted in accordance with the policies and

natural surroundings. These methods may be used

procedures prescribed in AR 385-63. The training pro-

singly or in combination. In general, mechanical de-

gram must emphasize that time will be critical when

struction, followed by demolition (use of explosives) or

equipment must be destroyed to prevent enemy use.

fire (burning with intense heat), will usually render

Upon completion of training, operators, users, and

equipment useless to the enemy. The methods used in

maintenance specialists should be thoroughly familiar

a given situation will depend upon the time, equipment,

with each step in the appropriate method for destroying

and personnel available.

equipment and supplies.

2-2. Limitations.

The procedures given are for gui-

2-5. Safety Precautions.

dance only. The method selected must be realistic de-

pending on the time and means available. The tactical

WARNING

situation, security classification, technical capabilities of

personnel, and the quantity and location of equipment

DEATH or severe wounds or burns may

must also be considered. The availability of the equip-

result if personnel fail to observe safety

ment required for each method may alter the application

precautions. To prevent injury to person-

of a particular method and cause a different method to

nel using dangerous procedures to de-

be used.

stroy equipment, observe all warnings

concerning demolitions, radioactive

2-3. Boobytrapping.

If time permits, boobytraps

materials, high pressures, dangerous

can be placed in debris after destruction of equipment is

chemicals, flying fragments, flammables,

complete. See FM 5-31 for the techniques.

incendiaries, and safe distances.

2-4. Training.

Training does not involve the actual

a. The unit commander will enforce all established

destruction of any materiel, but it does involve the

destruction safety precautions.

simulated breaking of vital parts; the placing of dummy

b. At least two persons will be assigned to perform

charges; the placing of dummy or inert incendiary gre-

any destruction procedures. No persons other than the

nades; and the selection of suitable sites for destroying

number required for safety and efficiency of destruction

equipment to block the advance of the enemy. Person-

operations will be permitted in the area. Evacuate all

nel selected to perform demolition of equipment by

other personnel from the immediate area prior to de-

explosives must have received appropriate demolitions

stroying equipment by mechanical means, demolition,

specialist training and be thoroughly familiar with

fire, gunfire or improper operation.

applicable provisions of AR 385-63, FM 5-25, and

c. Know and observe all warnings when performing

TM 9-1375-213-12. They may then conduct demon-

destruction operations.

strations showing unit personnel the techniques of using

Section II. DESTRUCTION BY MECHANICAL MEANS

2-6. Mechanical Means.

ripping, crushing, or breaking critical components of

equipment so that it cannot be used.

a. Destruction by mechanical means consists of

smashing, hammering, cutting, chopping, puncturing,

2-1