Mines in the surf zone : a proposed breaching concept

Abstract

This thesis addresses the threat that mines in the surf zone (ten foot curve to the high water mark) pose to Operational Maneuver From The Sea. Additionally, problems presented by minefields beginning at the high water mark and extending inland are reviewed. Effectiveness of notional minefields consisting of tilt rod and pressure fused anti-tank mines are modeled as a planar Poisson process. The delivery of the assault echelon (a Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward)) by landing craft is modeled as a simple circular flow process. Three methods for overcoming the minefields are developed and compared using five measures of effectiveness. A decision criteria for breaching a minefield by bulling through is offered. A breaching concept using fuel air explosives and a unique mine rake are presented. The thesis concludes that development of the 'Blast, Rake, Breach' concept should be pursued.