B-GL-361-021/ FP-Z01

ENGINEER FIELD MANUAL

ROUTE CLEARANCE TEAM

FORMATIONS TTP
(ENGLISH)

This publication becomes active on receipt

WARNING
ALTHOUGH NOT CLASSIFIED, THIS PUBLICATION, OR ANY PART OF IT, MAY BE EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE TO THE
PUBLIC UNDER THE ACCESS TO INFORMATION ACT. ALL ELEMENTS OF INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN MUST BE
CLOSELY SCRUTINIZED TO ASCERTAIN WHETHER OR NOT THE PUBLICATION OR ANY PART OF IT MAY BE RELEASED.

Issued on the authority of the Chief of the Land Staff

 B-GL-361-021 FP-Z01

ENGINEER FIELD MANUAL

ROUTE CLEARANCE TEAM

FORMATIONS TTP
(ENGLISH)

This publication becomes active on receipt

WARNING
ALTHOUGH NOT CLASSIFIED, THIS PUBLICATION, OR ANY PART OF IT, MAY BE EXEMPT FROM DISCLOSURE TO THE
PUBLIC UNDER THE ACCESS TO INFORMATION ACT. ALL ELEMENTS OF INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN MUST BE
CLOSELY SCRUTINIZED TO ASCERTAIN WHETHER OR NOT THE PUBLICATION OR ANY PART OF IT MAY BE RELEASED.

Issued on the authority of the Chief of the Land Staff

OPI: DAD 8 2007-07-24

 Route Clearance Team Formations TTP

PREFACE

INTRODUCTION

1. During contemporary counter-insurgency operations Improvised Explosive Devices

(IEDs) are often the insurgent’s weapon of choice, and result in very high numbers of coalition
casualties. The ever-increasing sophistication of IEDs is a challenge, but not an insurmountable
one. IEDs are generally seen as obstacles or as remotely manned weapon systems. Some
personnel thus view IEDs simply as hazards to breach or destroy in order to remove their
potential to cause harm. But IED attacks by insurgents are also criminal acts, so other personnel
view them as crime scenes as well. Evidence must be extracted from explosive debris to aid in
tracking down perpetrators and their supporters, and information must be collected to determine
how the devices function in order to develop technical countermeasures. Both approaches, in the
appropriate balance, are correct; which approach applies at any given moment depends on the
circumstance. However, experience has taught that if IEDs are rendered safe using explosive
ordnance disposal (EOD) expertise and information is extracted from the device, units are more
successful in establishing patterns and discovering the bomb makers and their support networks.
Similarly, electronic countermeasures are only available because the enemy’s radio-control
systems are captured intact.
2. Engineers conduct route clearance operations with specialized equipment along main
supply routes, alternate supply routes, and other routes guided by decisions based on intelligence
preparation of the battlefield (IPB) outcomes. When suspect items are located, and determined
through various interrogation methods to contain explosives, engineer clearance operations cease
and EOD becomes responsible for dealing with the device. Due to the critical need to capture
devices intact for intelligence and law enforcement value, EOD is the only designated agency
responsible for rendering safe IEDs. For this reason, an EOD team will always form part of a
route clearance team during counter-insurgency operations.
3. The IED is not the enemy. The enemy is in fact the designer, financier, bomb maker,
distributor, and, finally, the insurgent who emplaces and detonates the IED. To defeat this
enemy, the soldier must be observant not only for IEDs but also IED indicators. Soldiers need to
take the fight to the enemy by attacking the entire IED system (financier, bomb maker, etc), not
just the device. This requires aggressive tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP), used together
with combined arms support.
4. Route clearance operations involve three skill sets:

a. soldiers need to understand the enemy’s basic IED placement techniques, know
IED indicators, and be able to identify IED components;

b. soldiers need to be proficient at mounted and dismounted movement in an IED

environment; and

c. soldiers need to know the capabilities and limitations of their route clearance
equipment.

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5. The purpose of this TTP is to familiarize all personnel who may operate with engineer
route clearance teams with the basic structure of these teams and their tactical formations; briefly
describe the TTP commonly used in route clearance tasks; and describe the new protected route
clearance engineer equipment now being fielded in theatre.

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 Route Clearance Team Formations TTP

TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE....................................................................................................................................... i
CHAPTER 1 ROUTE CLEARANCE TEAM FORMATIONS
101. General ................................................................................................................. 1-1
102. RC Vehicle Roles and Responsibilities ............................................................... 1-1
103. Formations .......................................................................................................... 1-3
CHAPTER 2 ROUTE CLEARANCE TACTICS, TECHNIQUES, AND
PROCEDURES IN URBAN AND RURAL ENVIRONMENTS
201. Urban Operations ................................................................................................ 2-1
202. Rural Operations ................................................................................................. 2-2
CHAPTER 3 ROUTE CLEARANCE TEAM ACTIONS ON CONTACT
301. General ................................................................................................................ 3-1
302. SAID ................................................................................................................... 3-1
303. The Five Cs (Securing an IED Site).................................................................... 3-2
CHAPTER 4 MINE INVESTIGATION VEHICLE
401. General Description ............................................................................................ 4-1
402. Techniques for MIV Arm Interrogations of Suspected IEDs .............................. 4-6
CHAPTER 5 RG-31 MEDIUM MINE-PROTECTED VEHICLE
501. General Description ............................................................................................ 5-1
CHAPTER 6 MINE DETECTION TOWING VEHICLE
601. General Description ............................................................................................ 6-1
RESEARCHED TERMS........................................................................................................ RT-1

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TABLE OF FIGURES
Figure 1-1: Platoon Column........................................................................................................ 1-3
Figure 1-2: Platoon Staggered..................................................................................................... 1-4
Figure 1-3: Platoon Column with Team Column........................................................................ 1-4
Figure 1-4: Platoon Staggered with Team Staggered ................................................................. 1-4
Figure 4-1: MIV Engine............................................................................................................. 4-3
Figure 4-2: MIV Transmission ................................................................................................... 4-3
Figure 4-3: Hydraulic Crane ....................................................................................................... 4-5
Figure 4-4: Hydraulic Crane on MIV ......................................................................................... 4-5
Figure 4-5: IED Blast Fragment Zones....................................................................................... 4-6
Figure 4-6 MIV: Arm Techniques .............................................................................................. 4-7
Figure 5-1: RG-31....................................................................................................................... 5-2
Figure 5-2: RG-31 Side View ..................................................................................................... 5-3
Figure 6-1 MDTV ........................................................................................................................ 6-1

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 Route Clearance Team Formations TTP

CHAPTER 1
ROUTE CLEARANCE TEAM FORMATIONS

101. GENERAL

1. Route clearance (RC) is primarily an engineer mission. The structure and function of the
engineer RC package is not only conditioned by mission, enemy, terrain and weather, troops and
support available, time available and civil considerations, but is also contingent on the
operational environment and defined by mission objectives within the AOR. An engineer RC
team (RCT) can be effective in both offensive and defensive operations.
2. Although RC is more frequently conducted as a combined arms effort, this TTP focuses
on the engineer component. The most common organization engaged in RC is the engineer
support troop within the battle group engineer squadron. The RCT consists of one RG-31 mine-
protected vehicle (see Chapter 5), one Mine Investigation Vehicle (MIV) (see Chapter 4), one
mine detection towing vehicle (MDTV) (see Chapter 6), one RC Team Leader’s vehicle (mine-
protected vehicle preferred, but as a minimum, armoured), one sapper section vehicle or EOD
team vehicle (LAV Engineer or EOD rapid response vehicle depending on task assigned), and
one armoured ambulance.
3. The IPB process and commander’s risk assessment will assist in determining the correct
configuration necessary for each clearance mission. Due to the limited fielding of RC vehicles,
the RCT should always deploy as a team and not be parcelled out for non-RC tasks. It must be
clearly identified that the RCT is authorized to interrogate suspect devices, but that once an IED
is confirmed further interrogation ceases and EOD assumes responsibility for dealing with the
device. Due to the scarcity of RC equipment this practice must not be compromised.

102. RC VEHICLE ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Each type of vehicle within the RCT has a primary function/role, and each vehicle’s
personnel are assigned individual responsibilities:

a. Vehicle #1 (RG-31 or similar mine-protected vehicle):

(1) driver monitors road ahead and sets pace of team;

(2) crew commander monitors road and relays information to patrol leader
and trail vehicles;

(3) crew commander communicates all suspicious indicators to MIV (or

MDTV) for further interrogation;

(4) gunner usually orients turret weapon to 12 o’clock and covers sector of
fire from 10 o’clock to 2 o’clock; and

(5) Vehicle #1 provides security to MDTV.

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b. Vehicle #2 (MDTV):

(1) sole responsibility for MDTV operator is marking metal signatures for
MIV interrogation;

(2) operator (sole occupant) leading the RCT must maintain situational
awareness at all times;

(3) vehicle must be equipped with means to communicate with all other
elements of the RCT; and

(4) establish plan to clear full width of road (options are to have MDTV clear
one side of road for designated distance and then return along cleared side
to start point and clear other side, or to clear one side of road to turnaround
point and then clear in opposite direction on other side back to start point).

c. Vehicle #3 (MIV):

(1) driver monitors road ahead and left shoulder, and is alternate arm operator;

(2) arm operator monitors road and right shoulder, and is primary arm
operator;

(3) all suspicious indicators are interrogated visually before arm is employed;
and

(4) crew commander communicates with other vehicle commanders, provides

situational awareness of MIV actions, and halts RCT when necessary.

d. Vehicle #4 (RC Team Leader’s vehicle):

(1) driver monitors road ahead and left shoulder;

(2) team leader (TL) maintains position centered on the road behind the MIV
for best visibility and control;

(3) interpreter provides support to TL;

(4) gunner orients turret weapon to 2 o’clock and covers sector of fire from
12 o’clock to 4 o’clock;

(5) TL controls actions of all vehicles and personnel during RC mission;

(6) TL maintains communications with all crew commanders, tactical

operations center, task force elements, and land-owning unit;

(7) TL coordinates with battle space owner;

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(8) TL reports checkpoints, dismounted locations, explosive hazard (EH)

events, blast craters, and other mission related information (orally when
required and in writing upon completion of the mission); and

(9) TL conducts patrol debrief at end of mission.

e. Vehicle #5 (Sapper Section vehicle or EOD Team vehicle—LAV Engineer or

EOD rapid response vehicle);

f. Vehicle #6 (Armoured Ambulance); and

g. Vehicle #7 (LAV/RG-31/) RCT rear security vehicle (if available).

103. FORMATIONS

1. Several formations are available to the RCT. Various factors influence the selection of a
formation, including mission, enemy, terrain, troops and support available, time available and
civilian considerations, local road and traffic conditions, and time of day.
2. The platoon column (in the order of march described in paragraph 4 above) is the most
basic formation (see Figure 1-1). It is primarily used to move to and from named and targeted
areas of interest (NAI/TAI) at higher rates of speed. It is also used on narrow roads that restrict
the use of staggered formations.

RG-31 MDTV MIV TL Vehicle LAV Engr/ERRV RG-31

Vehicle separation along axis of travel: minimum 25 metres, maximum 50 metres. Actual distance determined by
TL/unit SOPs and ECM equipment coverage.

Figure 1-1: Platoon Column

3. The platoon staggered is the most common formation, used primarily when travelling
through NAI and TAI. It involves offsetting every other vehicle in the column to give greater
flexibility in response to an IED event (see Figure 1-2).

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Vehicle separation along axis of travel: minimum 25 metres, maximum 50 metres. Actual distance
determinedby TL/unit SOPs and ECM equipment coverage.

Figure 1-2: Platoon Staggered

4. The platoon column with team column is used when travelling through urban areas along
narrow roads, and in dispersed residential areas where a team over-watch is required. The two
three-vehicle teams are separated by an appropriate standoff distance (see Figure 1-3).

Vehicle separation: minimum 25 metres, maximum 50 metres. Actual distance determined by TL/unit SOPs
and ECM equipment coverage. Standoff distance between three-vehicle groupings varies depending on
visibility between rear and front grouping.

Figure 1-3: Platoon Column with Team Column

5. The platoon staggered with team staggered is primarily used when travelling through
urban developed areas, along multi-lane roads, and in industrial areas where a team over-watch is
required. The two three-vehicle teams are separated by an appropriate standoff distance (see
Figure 1-4).

Vehicle separation along axis of travel: minimum 25 metres, maximum 50 metres. Actual distance
determined by TL/unit SOPs and ECM equipment coverage.

Figure 1-4: Platoon Staggered with Team Staggered

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NOTES
The rear security vehicle illustrated in each of the above figures can be
substituted with a LAV III as determined by the Task Force commander.

Regardless of the formation type or task, an armoured ambulance will

accompany the RCT, located behind the sapper section vehicle or EOD vehicle,
forward of the rear security vehicle.

The MDTV may or may not form part of a RC task, and may not accompany all
RC task serials (especially for urban tasks)

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CHAPTER 2
ROUTE CLEARANCE TACTICS, TECHNIQUES, AND PROCEDURES IN URBAN
AND RURAL ENVIRONMENTS

201. URBAN OPERATIONS

1. Urban operations are defined as all military actions conducted on terrain where man-
made construction affects tactical operations.
2. The following factors must be considered in an urban environment:

a. Buildings provide cover and concealment, limit or enhance fields of fire, and
restrict or block movement of mounted and dismounted troops. They also provide
cover and concealment for enemy snipers and IED triggermen.

b. Streets afford avenues of approach and are the primary means for rapid ground
movement. Most urban areas contain heavy traffic, reducing IED standoff
distances and complicating their control.

c. Subsurface or subterranean systems can easily be employed as avenues of

approach and escape for friendly and enemy dismounted elements. Friendly
forces must identify all subways, sewers, cellars, and major underground utility
systems in the urban area.

d. Supra-surface systems are the internal levels and external roofs or tops of
buildings, stadiums, towers or other vertical structures. Trees, utility poles,
overhead bridges, walkways, and buildings close to streets all provide
opportunities for IED placement above surface level. These IEDs, if properly
sited, constitute a significant threat to exposed personnel in vehicle hatches.
3. There are several types of urban terrain:

a. dense, random construction;

b. closed, orderly block areas;

c. dispersed residential areas;

d. high-rise areas;

e. industrial and transportation areas; and

f. permanent or fixed fortifications and other military installations.

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4. Three tactical RC methods are particularly suited for use in the urban environment:

a. Urban Hasty Type 1:

(1) swift employment of vehicles to quickly scan and clear main supply routes
(MSRs) and alternate supply routes (ASRs) of IEDs;

(2) used when travelling to and away from named areas of interest (NAI), or
known hot spots with low frequency and lethality of IED attacks;

(3) lead vehicle maintains control of surrounding traffic and prevents vehicle
borne IEDs (VBIEDs) from getting close to the RCT;

(4) higher rate of travel (15-25 kph); and

(5) turret gunners remain down until tactical situation dictates otherwise.

b. Urban Hasty Type 2:

(1) slow, methodical search by vehicles to clear MSRs and ASRs of IEDs;

(2) used while travelling through NAI or known hotspots, and

(3) lower rate of travel (7-12 kph).

c. Urban Deliberate:

(1) used while travelling within targeted areas of interest (TAI) characterized
by high frequency and lethality of IED attacks;

(2) dismounts, though effective, are not normally deployed with RCTs in
urban areas due to their lack of protection and manoeuvrability;

(3) lower rate of travel (7-12 kph);

(4) should be coordinated as combined arms RC operation (infantry, close air,

other support as necessary); and

(5) mine detection towing vehicle (MDTV) is not used due to the large
amount of trash, debris, buried infrastructure, etc that produce continuous
metal signatures, resulting in false IED indications.

202. RURAL OPERATIONS

1. Rural environment differs significantly from urban areas. Rural routes are normally
poorly maintained hard surface or dirt roads, located in less densely populated areas. Coalition
forces do not regularly patrol these roads. Due to the scarcity of resources, reconnaissance and
aerial surveillance of large rural areas are problematic. Thus many rural areas are not subject to

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continuous surveillance, making the use of victim-operated IEDs (VOIEDs) and command-wire
IEDs (CWIEDs) more prevalent.
2. RCTs use the same types of formations as in the urban environment, except that the
MDTV leads. Only in a high threat environment, where there is an imminent threat of ambush or
VBIED, will the MDTV move behind the lead mine protected vehicle. The formation types are:

a. Rural Hasty: The rural hasty is used on improved hard surface roads, and is
similar in structure to the Urban Hasty formations except that:

(1) MDTV leads the formation; and

(2) speed of travel will vary due to the large amount of road which RCTs must
clear.

Air reconnaissance (both manned and unmanned) should be used on non-regularly

patrolled routes 1-2 days prior to the RC mission and, if available, during the
mission.

b. Rural Deliberate. These missions are conducted in high threat areas on

unimproved rural roads that are not as heavily travelled as improved roads. These
roads are generally free from debris and buried infrastructure found in urban
areas. Rural areas generally afford IED emplacers more time to camouflage and
conceal their work. The operation of the MDTV will generally be the focal point
of the rural deliberate RC mission and set the operations tempo for the RCT.
Deliberate sweeps should be combined arms operations that incorporate all
available assets with the RCT. Rural deliberate clearance missions can be used to
expand the number of routes available for movement (as time permits), thus
helping to avoid reliance on a few well-established routes and avoiding pattern-
setting behaviour.

c. Dismounts. Dismounts play an important role in rural RC operations and

perform a variety of tasks such as:

(1) Looking for IED indicators and triggerman locations.

(2) Locating command wires and tracing to firing points.

(3) Spotting poorly camouflaged and sited IEDs from the triggerman
perspective.

(4) Flushing triggermen out of hiding, since they will often flee prior to
detonating IED or detonate prematurely if dismounted troops are spotted.

(5) Conducting hasty searches for caches near IED sites along the routes. It
must be stressed, however, that searches of nearby buildings, questioning
locals, etc should be tasked to other follow-on elements, since security

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elements attached to the RCT must maintain their focus on protecting the
RCT and equipment in order to complete the mission in a timely fashion.
3. Route Sterilization in Urban and Rural Environments. Roadside trash and debris are
common in many areas in the AO and make spotting possible IEDs more difficult. One solution
to this problem is route sterilization, where an RCT, with attached assets including security
elements, removes trash and debris from a designated stretch of road. The end result is a road
cleaned of all possible IEDs. Sterilization serves multiple purposes: IED detection devices
become more effective, it is more difficult for the enemy to emplace IEDs, and all coalition
forces can more easily identify IEDs should the enemy attempt to emplace them again along the
sterilized route.

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CHAPTER 3
ROUTE CLEARANCE TEAM ACTIONS ON CONTACT

301. GENERAL

1. While executing the RC task all personnel must be prepared to react accordingly when
encountering an IED (or suspected IED). Reaction must be swift, relying on well rehearsed
drills.
2. An IED attack is an ambush. The effects of the ambush may range from catastrophic to
no damage at all. Whether pre- or post-detonation, you are in the enemy’s kill zone, and
therefore the RCT response must be appropriate to secure and control the area.

302. SAID

1. The acronym SAID is a useful mnemonic that describes the actions to be taken in
response to discovery or detonation of an IED. The following may not necessarily be sequential,
since the necessity to react rapidly will likely require concurrent activity.
2. Stop/Strike/Speed. On contact, warn RCT personnel by radio or hand signals. The
contact should be immediately reported by means of a contact report to higher headquarters. The
decision to stop, strike or speed will probably be the most difficult action to decide upon due to
uncertainty concerning the nature of the event and what may unfold. Assessing the situation will
facilitate an appropriate decision. ‘S’ is not a default for stop. Within the RCT, different
elements may be required to take different actions.
3. Assess. Quickly assess the overall tactical situation. Be vigilant for possible ambush.
Understand the nature of the threat to assess the associated risk and determine follow-on courses
of action. Confirm the presence of an IED. Look for other indicators. Assess the damage
(personnel or vehicular casualties).
4. Inform. The TL gives the RCT further direction on action drills, and provides a detailed
report and assessment to higher HQ.
5. Drills:

a. If there has been no detonation, secure the area and use the five “Cs” described
below (see section 303) as guidance for follow-up actions. Continue to be
vigilant, and be prepared to initiate ambush immediate action drills.

b. If there has been a detonation and the choice is to strike and/or defend a downed
vehicle/personnel:

(1) Immediately focus out, look for enemy, and return suppressive fire as
quickly as possible (engage as per ROE).

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(2) Immediately move unnecessary personnel and vehicles out of the kill
zone. At the new location, conduct 5 and 20 metre drills.

(3) If the decision is to strike at the enemy, then manoeuvre against the enemy
to kill or capture him. The period immediately following contact is often
critical as there is potential for coalition forces to kill or capture the
attacker. Any follow-up must be robust, but also be wary of the potential
for secondary devices/attack on or near the perceived FP.

(4) If there is a downed vehicle in the kill zone:

(a) Personnel not in the kill zone move unnecessary vehicles and
personnel to a safe area and await orders. Only those required will
move into the kill zone to aid the downed vehicle, including
actions to strike at the enemy. Supporting personnel in the kill
zone is the priority.

(b) Personnel in the kill zone provide protection and assistance to the
downed vehicle.

c. Expect other attacks by the enemy and secondary IEDs.

d. Secure the site as needed or as instructed. An investigation or recovery may be

required—employ the Five Cs. Preserve forensic evidence for follow-on
investigation. Remember that the longer you remain at the site, the greater the
risk of a follow-on attack.

e. Recover, treat, and MEDEVAC wounded.

f. Recover vehicles if possible. If not, remove sensitive items.

g. Report.

303. THE FIVE Cs (SECURING AN IED SITE)

1. The Five Cs (confirm, contact ops centre, clear, cordon, control) are a simple set of
guidelines to secure a site when a suspected or confirmed IED has been discovered or detonated.
The ability to secure the site will depend on the resources at hand and the tactical environment.
The steps are not necessarily conducted sequentially, but may occur concurrently. All steps
should be conducted using cover to your advantage:
2. Confirm. The presence of an IED should be confirmed. This should be done from a safe
distance. Conduct 5 and 20 metre checks to ensure no secondary devices are present. Move the
MIV into position to the rear of the suspect IED (to minimize blast effects) to conduct the
interrogation. Upon confirmation that the suspect device is an IED, the MIV will immediately
move away from the device. MIV arms will not be used in any attempt to dismantle, move, or
render safe the IED.

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3. Clear. Clear the area of people to a safe distance 300 metres beyond the device.
Clearance should be systematic and orderly, starting nearest the device and working away from
it. All personnel should attempt to remain out of the line of sight of the device, and avoid danger
from broken glass and debris should the device detonate. Assess whether your distance and
cover are adequate. When moving to another area, always conduct 5 and 20 metre checks at new
locations, looking for secondary devices. Report any additional devices found immediately to
the TL.
4. Contact Op Centre. Immediately contact ops centre to let higher HQ know what you
have found and what actions you are taking to deal with the device.
5. Cordon. A full or partial cordon may already be established while the ‘clear’ is being
conducted. Complete the cordon as necessary beyond the 300 metre cleared area to prevent
accidental or deliberate ingress to the cordoned area and to protect personnel working within it.
Set up incident command post (ICP) for TL, EOD, and medical personnel within the cordon.
Conduct 5 and 20 metre checks at new locations. Establish 360 degree security and dominate the
area. Establish obstacles to control approaches to security positions.
6. Control. The TL is the Incident Commander and controls operations from the ICP. Only
personnel authorized by the TL will entered the cordon area. Control must be maintained until
EOD has rendered safe the device and evidence has been collected. If the render safe procedure
causes device detonation the cordon and control of the site must be maintained until forensic
collection has been completed.

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CHAPTER 4
MINE INVESTIGATION VEHICLE

401. GENERAL DESCRIPTION

1. The mine investigation vehicle is purpose-built for use in mine-clearing operations.

Based on a design of South African origin, the vehicle is manufactured and assembled in South
Carolina using Mack Truck and proprietary components. The MIV can be employed over all
types of roads and can be driven cross-country and in all weather conditions.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Mack 6-cylinder turbo-charged diesel (burns DF-2) (see Figure 4-1)
Horsepower 450 hp @ 1800 revolution per minute (rpm)
Torque 1450 foot-pounds at 1200 rpm
Transmission Allison 5-speed automatic high and low range (see Figure 4-2)
Front axle Fabco SDA 2300 23,000 lb drive steer
Rear axles Mack tandem 50,000 lb
Tires Michelin 1600 R20 XZL, two spares
Drive system Full-time 6x6
Cooling system Liquid, radiator protected against debris
Electrical system Dual voltage 12v/24v
Batteries 4x l2v wired in parallel or series
Brakes Air, brake chambers protected
Air conditioning 44,000 British thermal units (BTU)
Seating Driver, co-driver, and up to four passengers
Armour protection 7.62 x 51mm NATO ball standard
Glass protection 7.62 x 51mm NATO ball standard
Mine protection All wheels and centerline
Hatches 6 topside standard
Doors 1 rear door only, opens into load bay
Height 117 inches (in)
Width 97 in
Length overall 323 in (27 ft)

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Curb/Max weight 45,320 lb/84,000 lb

Ground clearance 16 in under front axle, 20 in under transfer case cover

PERFORMANCE

Range 382 miles with 85 gallon fuel cell

Speed 55 miles per hour (mph) (sprint speed 65 mph)
Fording depth Approximately 40 in

OTHER FEATURES

1. one-piece, welded, armour-plated steel body;

2. articulated arm modified from a commercially available hydraulic crane;
3. fully adjustable, high-resolution video camera mounted on articulated arm; and
4. dashboard-mounted monitor.

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Figure 4-1: MIV Engine

Figure 4-2: MIV Transmission

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ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1. The MIV is equipped with a dual-charging alternator to run 12v and 24v systems.
2. The 12v system is used for the vehicle’s main internal operating functions.
3. The 24v system is used to run all added support equipment (radios, electronic-
countermeasures devices).
4. MIV is equipped with a 24v slave receptacle, but can only slave-start other vehicles.

CAUTION

The MIV cannot be slave-started from another 24v power source. If a MIV needs to be
jump-started, use jumper cables from one 12v battery of another vehicle.

HYDRAULIC CRANE/ARTICULATING ARM DESCRIPTION

1. The articulating arm is a commercially fitted crane with a mine-clearing tool attached
(see Figures 4-3 and 4-4).
2. The tool is called a “spork” (from a 1970s fork/spoon eating utensil of the same name).
3. The single spike on the bottom of the spork is used to break the ground around a
suspected object that may be buried.
4. When the object is protruding from the ground, the “spoon” portion of the spork is used
to surface and remove any loose dirt from the object.
5. The hydraulic arm has two sections, both of which can move simultaneously. The outer
section is the only portion of the boom that extends telescopically.
6. The effective working range of the boom is approximately 23 ft.
7. The boom is fitted with a video camera.
LIFT CAPACITY
1. Do not lift anything over 250 lb.
2. Do not use the arm to lift concrete barriers, large concrete objects, vehicles, people, trunk
hatches, equipment, or guardrails.
3. Lifting items beyond the arm’s capacity may bend or overstress components, resulting in
reduced range of motion or loss of hydraulic power.
4. A damaged articulating arm renders a MIV non-mission capable. Arm replacement can
take months.

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 Mine Investigation Vehicle

LESSON LEARNED

The MIV is not a Backhoe!

Figure 4-3: Hydraulic Crane

Figure 4-4: Hydraulic Crane on MIV

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Route Clearance Team Formations TTP

402. TECHNIQUES FOR MIV ARM INTERROGATIONS OF SUSPECTED IEDS

1. The stand-off approach is recommended when interrogating suspected IEDs with the
MIV arm. This recommendation is based upon Figure 4-5, which shows that the majority of
fragments from a detonating mortar or artillery round are explosively propelled in a cylindrical
pattern 90 degrees out from the long axis of the round. Fewer fragments come off the round at 0
degrees (the nose) or 180 degrees (the tail), therefore, the arm operator should interrogate long
cylindrical objects from the nose or tail, rather than from the side. When the situation/terrain
allows, the operator achieves maximum standoff when the arm is nearly fully extended from the
1 o’clock through 2 o’clock position, i.e. on the front passenger side (see Figure 4-6). When
investigating a suspicious trash pile, the operator uses slow, methodical raking motions, working
from top to bottom of the pile. If possible, the operator pushes the debris forward to maximize
standoff from a yet-unconfirmed threat. The same slow raking motion is used when interrogating
a patch of disturbed earth or potential buried IED. Once an IED is confirmed, the MIV backs off
and the RC TL takes appropriate actions in the reporting and decision-making process.

Figure 4-5: IED Blast Fragment Zones

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 Mine Investigation Vehicle

Figure 4-6 MIV: Arm Techniques

1. Rake debris piles from top to bottom, using the pick part of the spork.
2. Scratch surface with pick in deliberate movements to check for command wires and
detonation cord.
3. Push suspect containers (like debris piles and 5 gallon oil cans) away from MIV with
spork while interrogating.
4. Some objects (large white rice bags, cardboard boxes, other soft containers) can be
checked for volume by applying slight pressure with the front of the spork.

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CHAPTER 5
RG-31 MEDIUM MINE-PROTECTED VEHICLE

501. GENERAL DESCRIPTION

1. The RG-31 4x4 medium mine-protected vehicle (MMPV) is purpose-built for use in high
mine-threat environments (see Figures 5-1 and 5-2). It is manufactured in South Africa by Land
Systems OMC and has been purchased by several other nations besides Canada. The RG-31 can
be employed over all types of roads and can be driven cross-country and in all weather
conditions.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Cummins QSB 6-cycle Liquid-cooled diesel

Horsepower 275 hp at 2,500 revolutions per minute (rpm)
Torque 627 foot-pounds at 1,600 rpm
Transmission Allison S es5OQ 5-speed automatic
Transfer Case ZF VG 750 2-speed, full-time 4x4
Tires 335/80 R20 Michelin XZL
Electrical system 24v
Batteries 2 x 12v with NATO slave receptacle
Air conditioning. yes
Seating Driver plus four when configured for standard RC mission
Armour protection 7.62 x 51mm NATO ball
Glass protection 7.62x 51mm NATO ball
Mine protection 14 kilograms (kg) TNT under any wheel, 7 kg TNT under hull
Hatches Six top hatches plus turret with gun mount
Doors One, rear entry
Height 110 inches (in) (caution - vehicle is top heavy)
Width 97 in
Length overall 252 in
Curb/Max weight 19,180/25,350 lb configuration and load dependent
Ground clearance 13.8 in
Fuel cell 148 litres (39 gal)

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PERFORMANCE

Range 342 miles with 39 gal fuel cell (performance)

Speed 62 miles per hour (mph)
Fording depth 39 in

OTHER FEATURES

1. All-steel welded-armour monocoque body with V-shaped hull.

2. Modular interior layout that can be configured for armoured personnel carrier, command
and control, ambulance, reconnaissance or other applications.
3. Shear-off fenders for water and equipment storage.
4. Engine, transmission, and fuel cell reside within armoured hull for maximum protection.
5. Eleven gun ports for personal weapons.
6. Single top-turret that will accommodate one medium-size soldier wearing stripped vest.
7. For RC operations, spare tires are normally removed and additional armour added to
protect air tanks and fuel lines.

Figure 5-1: RG-31

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 RG-31 Medium- Mine Protected Vehicle

Figure 5-2: RG-31 Side View

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CHAPTER 6
MINE DETECTION TOWING VEHICLE

601. GENERAL DESCRIPTION

1. The towing mine-detection vehicle (MDTV) is purpose-built for use in high mine-threat
environments (see Figure 6-1). It is manufactured in South Africa by RSD and has been
purchased by several other nations besides Canada, including Australia, France, and the United
Kingdom. The MDTV can be employed over all types of roads as well as off road.
2. The MDTV as a stand-alone vehicle is equipped with a mine-detection system with
height-adjustable heads to detect surface-laid and buried high-metallic content anti-tank and anti-
personnel mines and IEDs containing metal components.
3. The MDTV as a towing vehicle pulls three mine-detonation trailers, each with a different
track, providing a full three-metre-wide proofing capability.

Figure 6-1 MDTV

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Route Clearance Team Formations TTP

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Mercedes Benz 6-cylinder, liquid-cooled, turbo-charged diesel

Horsepower 201 hp at 2,600 revolutions per minute (rpm)
Torque 553 foot-pounds at 1,250 rpm
Transmission Electronically controlled automatic
Transfer Case Low and high ranges, front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or 4-wheel
drive using five drive shafts
Tires Central inflation-control system
Electrical system 24 v with slave receptacle
Batteries 2 x 12v
Air Conditioning Yes
Seating Operator only, with specially designed seat and safety harness
Armour protection 7.62 x 51-mm NATO ball
Glass protection 7.62 x 51-mm NATO ball
Mine protection Mine-blast and fragmentation survivable, front and rear breakaway
modules
Hatches Top only
Doors None
Height 2.985 meters(m) (9ft 10 in)
Width 2.56 m (8 ft 4 in) pans up; 3.01 m (9 ft 11 in) pans down
Length overall 7.55 m (24 ft 9 in)
Curb weight 18,100 lb
Ground clearance .35 m (13.8 in) pans down .3 m (11.8 in) pans up
Fuel cell 150 liters (39.6 gallons)

PERFORMANCE

Range 600 miles

Speed 62 miles per hour (mph) (100 kilometers per hour [kph]) maximum
road; 20-45 mph (cruise)
Fording depth 0.7 m (2ft 4 in)

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 Mine Detection Towing Vehicle

DETECTION SYSTEM FEATURES

1. Will detect AT-TM57 mine(7 kg of explosives) at a depth of 75 cm.

2. Will pass over (without detonating) antitank mines with specially designed tires at
deflated pressures.
3. Target ink-marking system to mark the detected target. Requires before and after mission
cleaning for optimum performance.
4. Actual performance with IEDs depends on speed, height of detection heads, size of
device, metal content of device, type and content of soil, and sensitivity settings.
5. Less effective in areas of high metal content trash (typically urban areas).
6. More effective in rural environment where there is less ambient trash.
7. MDTV by itself can negotiate 60 percent slope.

MINE-DETONATING TRAILER SYSTEM FEATURES

1. Formal designation of trailers is first mine-detonation trailer (FMDT), followed by

second (SMDT) and subsequently third (TMDT) trailers. They act in a similar manner as a
centipede and are used together.
2. Combined weight of the trailers is 25 tons.
3. Trailers are designed to exert large ground pressure to initiate pressure-activated mines
and IEDs.
4. Each trailer has two axles of different lengths, providing clearing capability to a width of
3 metres.
5. If a mine detonates under a trailer, wheel bolts are designed to sheer, permitting
replacement of a single wheel.
6. Travel speed for the MDTV with trailers is limited to 15 kph.
7. MDTV with trailers can climb 20 percent slope, but descending is difficult due to braking
force required.
8. When going downhill, the MDTV must use lowest gear and the trailer brakes must be
selectively employed to maintain a safe, controllable speed.
9. MDTV with trailers attached requires a 25.5 m diameter circle to turn around and it
cannot back up.

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 Route Clearance Team Formations TTP

RESEARCHED TERMS
Mine protected vehicle Véhicule à l’épreuve des mines
http://www.army.forces.gc.ca/lf/English/2_ http://www.armee.forces.gc.ca/lf/Francais
display.asp?product=73&more=73 /2_display.asp?FlashEnabled=1&product
=73&more=73

Main supply route (MSR) Itinéraire principal de ravitaillement (IPR)

http://www.vcds.forces.gc.ca/dgsp/pubs/r http://www.vcds.forces.gc.ca/dgsp/pubs/r
ep-pub/dda/cjtl/cjtl14/lex_e.asp ep-pub/dda/cjtl/cjtl14/lex_f.asp

Command-wire IED EEI contrôlés par fil de commande à distance

http://www.suffield.drdc- http://www.suffield.drdc-
rddc.gc.ca/ResearchTech/Products/MilEn rddc.gc.ca/ResearchTech/Products/MilEn
g_Products/RD2005_12_EOD/index_e.ht g_Products/RD2005_12_EOD/index_f.ht
ml ml

Range Autonomie
http://www.armee.forces.gc.ca/lf/Francais http://www.armee.forces.gc.ca/lf/Francais
/2_display.asp?product=73&more=73 /2_display.asp?product=73&more=73

Ground Clearance Garde au sol

http://www.armee.forces.gc.ca/lf/Francais http://www.armee.forces.gc.ca/lf/Francais
/2_display.asp?product=73&more=73 /2_display.asp?product=73&more=73

B-GL-361-021/ FP-Z01 RT-1