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H-99. One of the most difficult breaching operations of the assault team is reducing masonry and reinforced concrete walls. C4 normally is used for explosive reduction because it is safe, easy to use, and readily available. Engineers usually are attached to the platoon or squad if explosive reduction operations are expected. The attached engineers will conduct the reduction themselves or provide technical assistance to the Infantry Soldiers involved. The typical thickness of exterior walls is 15 inches or less, although some forms of wall construction are several feet thick. Assuming all outer walls are constructed of reinforced concrete, a rule of thumb for reduction is to place 10 pounds of C4 against the target between waist and chest height. When detonated, this charge normally blows a hole large enough for a man to go through. On substandard buildings, however, a charge of this size could level the building. When explosives are used to reduce windows or doors, the blast should eliminate IEDs in the vicinity of the window or doorframe. (Refer to ATTP 3-06.11 for more information.)
Not all charges are mentioned in this manual, only the most commonly used by Infantry Soldiers. (Refer to ATP 3-34.20 for more information.)
Next: H-100: Charge Placement
Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad