The countermine challenge: an evolving requirement in a changing environment

The British Army´s countermine requirement has evolved in response to NATO´s changing military doctrine, which has moved away from attrition through the linear static defence of forward positions to a manoeuvrist approach. Such an approach requires an ability to counter the enemy´s obstacles (including mines) quickly and effectively across the width and depth of the battlefield. This has involved a major change to our equipment, organisations and training priorities. We have also had to respond to the growing mine threat to our troops deployed on Peacekeeping Operations. Our approach to this threat has been entirely consistent with the increased priority given to humanitarian activity by the UN, NATO and the European Union. The aim of this paper is to summarise the evolving UK military countermine requirement response to the changing security environment, and briefly discuss countermine equipment and battle area clearance quality assurance