A combination of both manual and mechanical demining methods and systems are necessary for maximum effectiveness as no single method of mine clearing can be relied upon. For this reason Countermine brings all the necessary capabilities to the table: major machine clearance on the grand scale at one end, through the use of Explosive Detection Dogs (EDD), to conventional manual methods at the other.
Countermine satisfies all of the requirements of the International Mine Action Standard (IMAS).
Lives are also an important consideration when deciding on the appropriate method of mine clearance to be employed. It is known that manual demining has always involved casualties but on certain types of ground there is no other option. Whenever conditions allow, mechanical demining is the preferred method of clearance as the heavily armoured machines provide paramount safety and protection for our operators.
Countermine is undeniably proud of its 100% safety record and has put considerable emphasis on maintaining it.
Mine clearance has proven to be a dangerous business with a heavy toll in casualties. The UN estimates that for every 5,000 mines cleared, one deminer will be killed and two will be seriously injured. These figures are supported by The World Bank which states that, “…one accident occurs for every 1,000 to 2,000 mines cleared.” [1]
Manual demining methods can be slow: a deminer can clear approximately 75m2 per day.
In consequence, manual methods are costly due to the time and manpower needed to clear large areas. Mechanical means of demining are more efficient in terms of reliability, cost and safety, bearing in mind that mechanical demining is not suitable in all circumstances. Some mines move from the spot on which they were laid or sink to a depth making them difficult to detect. This movement can alter the boundaries of the minefield and extend the danger area to an unknown degree. Although mines may lose much of their lethality below a certain depth due to soil cover preventing the application of required activating pressure, manual methods are likely to be ineffective at such depths. There are only a few mechanical systems able to clear mines at depths of 40cm or more. ORACLE is one of those machines and is the most powerful system in the industry. Others can achieve the depth but advance at a slower rate. Only the Countermine ORACLE mechanical demining equipment can move forward at an efficient rate and cost while still tilling the land to a depth of at least 50cm.
[1] These figures relate to the use of manual methods of mine clearance.
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