Ordnance disposal and clearance

When encountering a suspected or confirmed minefield, quickly assess the likely extent of the hazard area. This may be clearly defined by warning signs, physical barriers, or obvious defensive layouts. In unmarked cases, mine placement may follow terrain features such as forest edges, open ground, or integrated defensive positions.

Once a suspected danger area is identified:

• Mark the boundary clearly using available markers (flags, tags, or visible indicators)
• Record and share markings using maps or other navigation tools
• Avoid disturbing the area unnecessarily

The preferred option is to bypass the minefield entirely. Where movement through the area is required due to terrain or mission constraints, controlled access should be established using a cleared route Delineating clearing lanes FM/BG-1766.

When movement through a mined or suspected area is required, it is more effective to clear designated routes (lanes) rather than attempt to remove all hazards.

Lane clearance methods will depend on available equipment, but the following principles apply:

• Clear only what is needed to support movement
• Ensure sufficient width:
  • At least twice the width of the largest asset expected to pass
  • Allows for manoeuvre and reduces risk of deviation into uncleared ground
• Mark lane boundaries clearly:
  • Use visible indicators (flags, markers)
  • Use chemlights or reflective markers in low visibility conditions
• Maintain clear separation between cleared and uncleared areas

These principles also apply in built-up areas. Any structures within the required lane width should be treated as part of the clearance zone and checked for hazards.

• Identify start and end points for the lane
• Select route that avoids high-risk areas where possible
• Use detection equipment to locate hazards along the route
• Neutralise, mark, or bypass hazards within the required width
• Maintain consistent alignment and spacing throughout the lane
• Confirm the lane is safe before authorising movement

• Define the limits of the cleared route
• Place visible markers along both boundaries
• Maintain consistent spacing ensuring each marker is visible from the next
• Use appropriate markers for conditions (flags, chemlights, reflectives)
• Update markings as the route status changes