Specialized Combat Explosive Firing Guide (TEC-S)

Overview and Employment Domains of Explosive Firing

Regulatory Framework and Scope:
- The operational implementation of explosives in the French Army is governed by official doctrine and technical manuals under two distinct domains: Interarms Combat Explosive Firing (Tir Explosif de Combat Interarmes - TEC-IA) and Specialized Combat Explosive Firing (Tir Explosif de Combat Spécialisé - TEC-S).
- Manual PFT GEN 3.12.14 establishes regulations, procedures, and safety rules for specialized explosive firing, including elementary destructions, tactical explosive breaching (effraction chaude), and specialized equipment demolition.
- The manual applies primarily to Engineer units (Arme du génie), Land Special Forces (Forces Spéciales Terre - FST), and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel.
Comparison of Employment Domains:
- TEC-IA Domain (PFT GEN 3.12.12):
- Covers basic explosive employment for non-engineer, conventional combined-arms units.
- Aimed at destroying dangerous unexploded ordnance pursuant to PIA 207 (MESSEC) and performing simple surface destructions.
- TEC-S Domain (PFT GEN 3.12.14 and PFT GEN 3.12.15):
- Modernizes advanced explosive techniques for high-intensity warfare environments.
- Integrates physiological constraints from detonation blast waves, mechanical shock effects, tactical combined-arms tempo, and structural architecture of target infrastructures.
- Introduces reduced safety distances for tactical explosive breaching (effraction chaude) by optimizing charge sizing and leveraging structural barriers and corner attenuation.
Domain Compatibility and Interoperability:
- Personnel authorized under TEC-S are fully qualified to lead or assist in TEC-IA activities, provided they comply with PFT GEN 3.12.12 regulations.
- Personnel participating in a TEC-S exercise must be explicitly qualified and authorized under the TEC-S domain.

General Properties and Physics of Explosives

Fundamental Definition:
- An explosive is a chemical substance or mixture which, under appropriate initiation, undergoes an extremely rapid chemical decomposition reaction in detonation mode, generating high-temperature gases under immense pressure.
- Primary useful effects sought in military demolitions:
- Overpressure / Shockwave Effect: Characterized by brisance ( $\text{aptitude to shatter solid materials}$ ), creating cracks and fractures through contact.
- Projection / Expansion Effect: Driven by high-temperature gas expansion, providing a progressive or sudden pushing and ejection force on fragmented material.
Types of Chemical Reactions:
- Combustion:
- Propagates via thermal conductivity at a moderate speed (order of centimeters per second).
- Material burns without explosive shock.
- Deflagration:
- Accelerated combustion caused by rapid pressure and temperature rise (order of hectometers per second).
- Produces an explosive reaction with a progressive pushing force.
- Detonation:
- Chemical decomposition coupled with a supersonic shockwave (order of kilometers per second).
- Produces maximum brisance and brutal mechanical shock.
Classification of Explosives:

Classification of Explosives

By Sensitivity and Employment:
- Primary Explosives (Explosifs Primaires): Extremely sensitive to flame, friction, spark, or impact (e.g., lead azide, lead styphnate). Used exclusively in small quantities inside detonators to initiate secondary explosives.
- Secondary Explosives (Explosifs Secondaires): Relatively insensitive to thermal or mechanical shock; require initiation by the shockwave of a primary explosive or booster charge (e.g., PETN, RDX, Hexolite, Tetryl). Used as main demolition charges.
By Mechanical Effect (Brisance):
- Brisant Explosives: High detonation velocity ( $> 6800\,m/s$ ). Capable of shearing steel and solid targets via surface contact without requiring confinement or tamping (bourrage).
- Less Brisant Explosives: Lower detonation velocity ( $\approx 4000\,m/s$ ). Generate larger gas volumes; require physical confinement (bourrage) to exert a prolonged pushing force (e.g., quarrying explosives).
- Key Physical Characteristics:
Sensitivity: Measured by the minimum energy input required to trigger detonation via initiation, friction, shock, heat/flame, or influence (sympathetic detonation from nearby explosions).
Stability: Ability to maintain physical and chemical properties over time under environmental stress (heat, cold, humidity, storage duration). Instability causes exudation, discoloration, or crystallization, altering sensitivity dangerously.
Useful Effect / Power: Quantified relative to TNT equivalent ( $\text{Trinitrotoluene}$ ).
- Detonation Effects and Hazards:
Shockwave / Overpressure: Supersonic pressure pulse causing primary blast injuries and material shattering.
Blast Wind / Push Effect: Rapid expansion and subsequent contraction of heated gases, throwing objects and personnel.
Thermal Effects: Extreme gas temperatures causing burns and secondary fires.
Projections and Fragments: Primary fragments (target/casing material at initial speeds $\approx 1000\,m/s$ ) and secondary projectiles (ground debris/dirt at speeds up to $\approx 100\,m/s$ ).
Toxic Smoke and Gases: Carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and oxygen depletion in confined spaces.
Ground Vibrations: Seismic transmission causing structural collapse at distance.
Indirect Effects: Secondary structural collapse, falling debris (tiles, chimneys), and glass shattering.
- Human Blast Pathology Categorization:
Primary Blast: Internal organ damage caused directly by the supersonic overpressure wave interacting with tissue interfaces (air-tissue boundaries like ear tympanums and lungs).
Secondary Blast: Penetrating or non-penetrating trauma caused by flying fragments and debris.
Tertiary Blast: Physical displacement and impact of the body thrown against environmental structures by blast wind.
Quaternary Blast: Burns, toxic gas inhalation/asphyxiation, and crush injuries from indirect structural collapse.

Architecture and Classification of Demolition Systems

System Components:

Composition of a Demolition System

Moyen de mise à feu (Firing Source): Generates initial activation energy (pyrotechnic friction igniter, electric exploder, or manual shock tube igniter).
Moyen de transmission (Transmission Line): Conveys energy to the priming point (safety fuse MLEN, electric lead wire KL5, or shock tube TOC).
Moyen(s) d'amorçage (Priming Means): Detonators and intermediate boosters that generate and distribute the detonation shockwave.
Charge(s) de destruction (Demolition Charge): Main explosive blocks (PETD, PEM) or shaped charges placed on the target.
- Demolition System Configurations:
Dispositif de destruction élémentaire simplifié: A single explosive charge where the firing charge and demolition charge are unified.
Dispositif de destruction élémentaire: A firing charge initiating a single separate demolition charge.
Dispositif de destruction simple: Uses a main detonating cord line (cordeau maître) paired with branch lines (cordeaux dérivés) arranged centrally or laterally to initiate multiple separated charges.

Simple Demolition System

Dispositif de destruction multiple: A single booster block or high-capacity detonator simultaneously initiating up to 6 separate branch detonating cords.
Dispositif de destruction "Flash": Multiple separated demolition charges initiated simultaneously using individual electric detonators wired in series or parallel without detonating cords.
Dispositif de destruction circulaire: Closed loop main detonating cord circuit featuring dual transmission and duplicated branch cords to guarantee detonation transmission across complex targets.

Circular Demolition System

Dual Priming and Firing (Double Amorçage / Double Mise à Feu):
- Designed to eliminate misfire risks on critical targets by redundantly duplicating firing means, transmission lines, and detonators.
- Double Amorçage: Placing 2 distinct detonators on 2 taped explosive blocks or a single plastic charge (can be dual pyrotechnic, dual electric, dual shock tube, or mixed pyrotechnic/electric).
- In mixed pyrotechnic/electric dual priming, pyrotechnic ignition is executed prior to electric firing.

Firing Systems and Components

Pyrotechnic Initiation Line:
- Allumeur de Mèche Lente Modèle F1 (AL MLEN F1):
- Mass: $11\,g$ ; Storage Hazard Class: 1.4S.
- Contains friction composition and pull-rod system. Features plastic body, safety pin, thread ring, and cap.
- Mèche Lente Modèle F2 (MLEN F2):
- Black powder core ( $6\,g/m$ ) enclosed in paper, jute, cotton, and brown polyethylene outer sheath.
- Diameter: $5.5\,mm$ ; Roll Mass: $250\,g$ ( $10\,m$ roll); Storage Class: 1.4S.
- Burning Rate: $108\text{ to } 132\text{ seconds per meter}$ .
- Mandatory pre-use checks: Inspect for cracks/moisture, refresh tip (cut $2\,cm$ ), and calibrate ( $1\,m$ timed burn test per new roll/climate shift). Minimum allowable operational length = $50\,cm$ .
- Détonateur Pyrotechnique BRISKA Modèle 61:
- Aluminum tube ( $38\,mm \times 6.85\,mm$ ) containing $0.2\,g$ lead azide/styphnate (primary) and $0.8\,g$ tetryl or PETN (secondary). Storage Class: 1.4B.
- Crimp onto MLEN F2 using specialized non-sparking crimping pliers.
Electric Initiation Line:
- Exploseur Électronique ITS 100:
- Dual-housing unit: Electronic unit ( $580\,g$ ) + removable power source/security key ( $500\,g$ , 4 lithium batteries, capacity up to 500 firings).
- Operating Temperature: $-33^\circ\text{C to } +63^\circ\text{C}$ ; Maximum line impedance: $500\,\Omega$ .
- Features line test buttons ( $L1, L2$ ), charge indicator light, and dual firing buttons.
- Câble Électrique KL5:
- Dual twisted conductors (each made of 4 copper and 3 steel strands); tensile strength $140\,kg$ ; length $400\,m$ on DR8 reel.
- Must be retired/replaced if containing more than 20 splices (épissures) overall or on the first $100\,m$ section.
- Détonateur Électrique Instantané Modèle F3 (DETO EL I F3):
- Brass tube containing $0.2\,g$ lead azide + $0.8\,g$ PETN. Fitted with $1.5\,m$ insulated leads, short-circuit cap, and $10\,mm$ OTAN thread plug. Storage Class: 1.4B.
- Temperature range: $-25^\circ\text{C to } +55^\circ\text{C}$ .
- Electromagnetic Field Safety Distances (F3 Detonator):
- Cell phones, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth devices must be powered off or isolated.
- Electric firing suspended during thunderstorms.
- High-Voltage Power Lines: Minimum distance $25\,m$ ; Electric Railway Lines: Minimum distance $3\,m$ .
- Non-dotation Radio Transmitters:
  - $< 30\text{ Watts}$ : $3\,m$
  - $30 - 300\text{ Watts}$ : $10\,m$
  - $300 - 1000\text{ Watts}$ : $20\,m$
  - $1000 - 3000\text{ Watts}$ : $30\,m$
  - $3000 - 10000\text{ Watts}$ : $50\,m$
  - $10000 - 30000\text{ Watts}$ : $90\,m$
  - $30000 - 100000\text{ Watts}$ : $150\,m$
  - $\ge 100000\text{ Watts}$ : $280\,m$
- Military Transmitters (RFM7800M, BP450 jammer): Minimum distance $1.5\,m$ .
Shock Tube Initiation Line (MAFTOC):
- System MAFTOC (Mise à Feu par Transmission d'Onde de Choc) is a sealed all-in-one unit comprising a manual striker igniter, shock tube (TOC, propagation velocity $\approx 2000\,m/s$ ), and a high-strength detonator.
- MAFTOC Courte: $20\,m$ TOC ( $1.53\,g$ active material = $1.95\,g$ TNT eq).
- MAFTOC Longue: $160\,m$ TOC ( $4.4\,g$ active material = $7.52\,g$ TNT eq).
- Includes a multi-line connector block capable of initiating up to 6 secondary TOC lines simultaneously.
Common Priming Components and Boosters:
- Cordeau Détonant Type Génie (CD):
- Flexible green waterproof sheath containing PETN core ( $15\,g/m$ active material = $19\,g/m$ TNT eq); outer diameter $5.5\,mm$ ; total weight $29\,g/m$ ; $100\,m$ spool; storage class 1.1D; detonation velocity $\approx 7000\,m/s$ .
- Joining techniques: Square knot (nœud droit) or taped splice ( $10\,cm$ length).
- Branch line knotting: Lark's head knot (nœud tête d'alouette) maintaining an acute angle ( $< 90^\circ$ ) oriented in the direction of shockwave propagation.

Lark's Head Knot Angle

Raccord Mixte Indétectable Modèle 1952 (RAC MIX ID 52):
- Dual plastic threaded adapter ( $10\,mm$ and $20\,mm$ threads) with rubber compression sleeve to lock safety fuses or detonating cords into standard charge wells.
Relais d'Amorçage pour Cordeau Modèle F1 (REL AM CORD F1):
- Mass $10\,g$ ( $3.7\,g$ PETN core = $4.4\,g$ TNT eq). Features $10\,mm$ thread and hinged locking clip for CD attachment.
Pétard de 250 g Indétectable Modèle 1951 (PETD 250g ID 51):
- Green plastic block ( $153 \times 47.4 \times 37.5\,mm$ ); total mass $320\,g$ ; main charge $240\,g$ Hexolite 60/40 + two $10\,g$ PETN booster wells ( $300\,g$ TNT eq, TNT coefficient = $1.20$ ). Storage class 1.1D.
Pain Explosif Malléable HEXOMAX (PEM):
- Flexible plastic explosive block ( $200 \times 60 \times 30\,mm$ ); total/active mass $530\,g$ ( $636\,g$ TNT eq, TNT coefficient = $1.20$ ). Contains RDX + binder + 1% DMDNB chemical marker. Storage class 1.1D. Minimum kneaded thickness = $4\,mm$ .

Demolition Priming Procedures and Connections

Priming Demolition Blocks (Pétards):
- With Pyrotechnic Detonator: Insert crimped detonator into block well; secure using RAC MIX ID 1952 or electrical tape.
- With Electric Detonator: Screw threaded F3 detonator directly into the $10\,mm$ OTAN well.
- With Detonating Cord (CD):
- Via RAC MIX ID 1952: Pass CD strand through fitting into well and tighten sleeve.
- Via 4-Strand Flat Wrap (Lovage à plat 4 brins): Wrap 4 parallel strands of CD longitudinally along block face and tape securely at both ends.
- Via 5-Strand Flat Wrap (Lovage à plat 5 brins): Wrap 5 parallel strands across block face; used for circular loops and dual initiation.
- Via 4-Turn Knot (Nœud 4 tours): Form a loop along block face, wrap 4 tight turns around block end, and pass CD end through loop.
Priming Plastic Explosive (PEM HEXOMAX):
- With Detonator: Use non-sparking wooden/plastic probe to cavity an opening slightly larger than detonator; insert detonator at least $1\,cm$ deep; hand-compress plastic around detonator.
- With Detonating Cord: Tie a knotted loop (boucle nouée) on the CD strand; open the PEM block, embed the knotted loop completely inside the plastic mass, and hand-compress firmly.
Priming Detonating Cords:
- Single Strand with Detonator: Fold CD end into a $5\,cm$ loop (ganse); tape detonator flush against both parallel strands along its entire length.
- Multiple Strands (up to 6) with Detonator: Bundle up to 6 CD strands around detonator shell; tape continuously.
- Multiple Strands with PEM: Tie a joint knotted loop (boucle nouée) combining all CD strand ends and knead into PEM mass.

Qualifications, Habilitations, and Roles

Qualifications and Habilitation Architecture:

Qualifications and Habilitations

Qualification: Technical competency awarded upon completing official training courses (I TEC-S, M TEC-S, CATi TEC-S).
Habilitation: Annual administrative authority granted by the Administrative Unit Commander (Commandant de la Formation Administrative - CFA) empowering qualified personnel to fill specific operational roles.
- Role Descriptions:
Instructeur de Tir Explosif de Combat Spécialisé (I TEC-S):
- Regiment-level explosive expert and advisor to the CFA.
- Directs M TEC-S and M TEC-IA training courses; controls annual habilitation renewals; manages unit RETEX.
Moniteur de Tir Explosif de Combat Spécialisé (M TEC-S):
- Qualified to conduct instruction, supervise explosive preparations, and lead firing ateliers (AMO).
Directeur de Tir Explosif de Combat Spécialisé (D TEC-S):
- Officer or senior NCO (CDS / SOA) holding I TEC-S or M TEC-S, habilitated by CFA.
- Holds absolute safety and operational authority over the firing range and implementation zone (ZMO).
- Retains sole authority to order weapon firing (Mise à feu).
Chef de Groupe de Tir Explosif de Combat Spécialisé (CDG TEC-S):
- NCO or team leader holding M TEC-S, habilitated by CFA.
- Commands an Atelier de Mise en Œuvre (AMO); supervises placement, priming, and firing of charges under D TEC-S control.
Officier de Sécurité (OS):
- Safety officer appointed to assist D TEC-S in monitoring a Sector (SMO) or Atelier (AMO).
Chef de la Troupe (CDT):
- Tactical commander of combined-arms maneuver element (Platoon level). Subordinate to D TEC-S for range safety.
Cadre Chargé des Munitions:
- NCO (M TEC-S / CDG TEC-S) responsible for explosive drawdown, depot management, safety fuse calibration, inventory accounting, and maintaining an emergency destruction lot (lot de destruction) on site.
- Recurrent Training Requirements:
Minimum firing activity: Participated in at least 1 real explosive firing exercise in the preceding 3 years.
Annual maintenance: Annual safety refresh lecture by I TEC-S + participation/supervision of at least 1 real or inert explosive session.

Range Safety, Areas, and Environmental Layout

Range Infrastructure Categories:
- Without Permanent Shelter: Maximum allowable charge = $15\,kg$ TNT equivalent (timber and masonry targets only).
- With Permanent Shelter: Max charge up to $650\,kg$ TNT equivalent.
- Specific Breaching Screen (Écran d'effraction):
- Minimum height = $2.3\,m$ ; Thickness = $\ge 12\,cm$ (reinforced concrete) or $\ge 75\,cm$ (sandbags/earth merlon); Length = extends at least $1\,m$ beyond personnel position.
Zoning Definitions:
- Zone de Mise en Œuvre (ZMO): Overall authorized firing range area.
- Secteur de Mise en Œuvre (SMO): Subdivision of ZMO for up to 1 platoon element (Max 3 SMO per ZMO).
- Atelier de Mise en Œuvre (AMO): Demolition work site commanded by 1 CDG TEC-S (Max 3 AMO per SMO; Max 2 AMO in tactical firing exercises).

Technical Firing Range Implantation

Zone de Choc (ZC): Circular shockwave hazard area around target where personnel, even if shielded, are exposed to primary blast overpressure.
Zone Dangereuse (ZD): Circular hazard area around target where unshielded personnel are exposed to secondary fragments and projectiles.
- Safety Zones and Ear Protection Regulations:
Hearing protection is mandatory for all personnel inside ZD.
Maximum exposure limit: Personnel located within $2 \times \text{ZC radius}$ are limited to a maximum of 5 explosive firings per 24-hour cycle.
Unshielded Primary Blast Shockwave Radius ( $\text{ZC}$ ):

Charge Mass ( $kg$ TNT eq)	$30\,dB$ Attenuation (Molded Plugs)	$26\,dB$ Attenuation (3M Combat Arms + Earmuff)	$20\,dB$ Attenuation (3M Combat Arms)
$\le 0.016\,kg$ ( $16\,g$ )	$7\,m$	$11\,m$	$17\,m$
$0.016 - 0.025\,kg$	$9\,m$	$13\,m$	$22\,m$
$0.025 - 0.050\,kg$	$13\,m$	$20\,m$	$32\,m$
$0.050 - 0.100\,kg$	$15\,m$	$24\,m$	$36\,m$
$0.100 - 0.250\,kg$	$20\,m$	$32\,m$	$48\,m$
$0.250 - 0.500\,kg$	$25\,m$	$40\,m$	$60\,m$
$0.500 - 0.750\,kg$	$30\,m$	$45\,m$	$80\,m$
$0.750 - 1.25\,kg$	$35\,m$	$50\,m$	$90\,m$
$1.25 - 2.00\,kg$	$40\,m$	$60\,m$	$100\,m$
$2.00 - 3.00\,kg$	$45\,m$	$75\,m$	$110\,m$
$3.00 - 5.00\,kg$	$55\,m$	$85\,m$	$140\,m$
$5.00 - 7.00\,kg$	$65\,m$	$95\,m$	$160\,m$
$7.00 - 10.00\,kg$	$70\,m$	$110\,m$	$170\,m$

Secondary Fragment Hazard Radius ( $\text{ZD}$ ):
- Isolated detonator: $20\,m$ .
- Surface charge on bare soil: $\le 0.3\,kg$ ( $100\,m$ ); $0.3 - 5\,kg$ ( $200\,m$ ); $5 - 10\,kg$ ( $250\,m$ ); $10 - 15\,kg$ ( $300\,m$ ).
- Surface charge on timber or masonry ( $\le 15\,kg$ ): $300\,m$ .
- Surface charge on steel / metallic targets ( $\le 10\,kg$ ): $1000\,m$ .
- Special shaped charges (any mass): $1000\,m$ .
- Formula for bare charges between $15\,kg$ and $250\,kg$ : $\text{ZD} = 150 \times \sqrt[3]{C}$ where $C$ is charge mass in $kg$ TNT equivalent.
- Altitude and Wind Corrections for Metallic Cuts:
- Elevation correction: Add $10\,m$ to ZD for every $100\,m$ of elevation above $400\,m$ altitude.
- Wind correction: Add $150\,m$ to ZD if adverse wind speed exceeds $8\,m/s$ ( $\approx 30\,km/h$ ).
- Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) Destruction Safety Radii (PIA 207):
- Hand grenades: $250\,m$ ; Rockets: $300\,m$ ; Artillery/Armored shells & missiles: $500\,m$ .

Organization and Execution of Firing Sessions

Technical vs. Tactical Firing Exercises:
- Tirs Techniques: Focus on group-level technical proficiency in charge placement and wiring without combined-arms tactical movement.
- Tirs Tactiques: Executed by a platoon-level element (CDT) wearing full combat equipment within a realistic combined-arms scenario. Employs a dual command chain: D TEC-S/OS for absolute safety, CDT for tactical command.

Tactical Firing Scheme

Minimum Supervision Staffing Levels:
- Daytime Technical Firing: 1 D TEC-S + 1 CDG TEC-S per active AMO.
- Daytime Tactical Firing: 1 D TEC-S + 1 OS per tactical sub-element (Max 2 AMO / 4 elements per ZMO).
- Night Firing: Restricted to 1 single demolition sequence at a time. Requires 1 D TEC-S + 1 OS per element; prior daytime rehearsal on same range mandatory.
Order of Firing Commands (Ordre de Tir des Explosifs):
- Formal command sequence issued by D TEC-S covering: Objectif (Target), Charge (Explosive type/mass), Zones (ZC/ZD radii, shelters), Placement (Placement order), Amorçage (Priming order), Mise à Feu (Firing order), Coordination (Radio/visual signals, OS positions), Divers (Misfire/contingency plans).
Execution Milestones (Jalons):
1. Placement: Charges positioned on target.
2. Amorçage: Detonators and boosters attached to charges.
3. Mise à Feu: Ignition triggered exclusively upon explicit order of D TEC-S.
- Inverted Sequence (Effraction Chaude): For experienced breaching units, D TEC-S may authorize: Priming $\rightarrow$ Placement $\rightarrow$ Firing. In this mode, the order to prime constitutes the final command leading to immediate execution.
Post-Blast Protocol:
- Personnel must remain sheltered for at least 2 minutes after detonation to allow secondary debris to fall and toxic fumes to clear.
- Exception: In tactical explosive breaching (effraction chaude), post-blast waiting time is reduced to 1 second to exploit shock and entry speed.

Elementary Demolition Formulas and Procedures

Timber Demolition (Pièces en Bois):
- Round Logs and Tree Trunks (Grumes et Troncs):
- Block/PEM Surface Charge: $C = 1.3 \times p^2$ where $C$ is charge mass in $kg$ , and $p$ is trunk perimeter in meters ( $0.63\,m < p < 1.88\,m$ ).
- Detonating Cord Ring + Tipping Charge (Charge de basculement):
  - CD turns wrapped in pyramid formation at $1.5\,m$ height: $\text{Number of turns} = \frac{p}{3.14}$
  - Tipping charge placed on the side of intended fall direction:
  - $p < 0.80\,m \rightarrow 0.5\,kg$
  - $0.80\,m \le p \le 1.25\,m \rightarrow 1.0\,kg$
  - $1.25\,m \le p \le 1.90\,m \rightarrow 1.5\,kg$

Tree Tipping Charge

Squared Timber (Équarris):
- Surface charge placed on wide face: $C = 13 \times a \times b$ where $C$ is mass in $kg$ , $a$ and $b$ are cross-section sides in meters (applicable for diagonal $\sqrt{a^2+b^2}$ between $0.2\,m$ and $0.6\,m$ ).
- Steel and Metallic Target Demolition (Pièces Métalliques):
Safety hazard radius ZD = $1000\,m$ .
Simple Steel Plates (Plaques Simples):
- For plate thickness $e < 5\,cm$ : $C = e$ where $C$ is explosive mass in $kg\text{ per meter of cut}$ , and $e$ is thickness in $cm$ .
- For plate thickness $5\,cm \le e \le 8\,cm$ : $C = 2 \times e$
- Minimum linear density for PEM = $0.4\,kg/m$ .
- Number of PETD 250g blocks in square bundle cross-section: $n = \frac{C}{10 \times l \times P}$ where $P$ is block mass in $g$ , and $l$ is block length in $cm$ .
Composite / Multi-Layer Steel Plates (Plaques Composées):
- For total thickness $e \le 8\,cm$ across $m$ layers: $C = e + \frac{m \times e}{2}$
Round Steel Bars (Barres Rondes):
- Using PETD blocks ( $d \le 6\,cm$ or perimeter $p \le 18\,cm$ ): $C = 150 \times d \quad \text{or} \quad C = 50 \times p$ where $C$ is in grams, $d$ in $cm$ . Split into 2 opposing offset half-charges ( $\text{offset } i < d$ ).
- Using PEM Plastic ( $1\,cm \le d \le 10\,cm$ ): $C = 100 \times d \quad \text{or} \quad C = 33 \times p$ where $C$ is in grams. Placed as a half-crown collar of length $l = 3d$ .
Steel Cables (Câbles Métalliques):
- Using PETD blocks ( $d < 5\,cm$ ): $C = 80 \times d^2 \quad \text{or} \quad C = 8 \times p^2$ (in grams).
- Using PETD blocks ( $5\,cm \le d \le 10\,cm$ ): $C = 160 \times d^2 \quad \text{or} \quad C = 16 \times p^2$ Split into 2 offset half-charges ( $i < d$ ).
- Using PEM Plastic ( $2.2\,cm \le d \le 10\,cm$ ): $C = 20 \times d^2 \quad \text{or} \quad C = 2 \times p^2$ (in grams). Formed into a full wrap-around collar of length $l = 3d$ .
Structural Steel Beams (IPN, HPN, UPN):
- Divide section into elementary web and flange plates; compute individual plate charges and link with detonating cord.

Specialized Equipment and Infrastructure Demolition

Railway Demolitions (Voies Ferrées):
- Single rail breach ( $40\,cm$ gap): $0.250\,kg$ PETD placed against rail web between ties.
- Rail + Tie destruction ( $40\,cm$ gap): Wooden tie = $0.500\,kg$ ; Concrete tie = $0.750\,kg$ .
- Rail segment destruction ( $1.8\,m$ gap): "Couple de cavalerie" system using two $0.250\,kg$ charges placed $1.50\,m$ apart.
- Switch destruction (Aiguillages): Two $0.250\,kg$ charges wedged between switch blades and stock rails $2\,m$ from point.
- Frog / Crossing destruction (Croisements): Two $0.500\,kg$ charges or one $1.0\,kg$ charge inside frog V-point.
Utility Pole Demolitions (Poteaux):
- Wooden poles: $C = 1.3 \times p^2$ (in grams). Standard $25\,cm$ diameter pole ( $p = 0.78\,m$ ) requires $\approx 800\,g$ PEM or 4x 250g PETD blocks.
- Reinforced Concrete Poles (Rectangular section $a \times b$ ):
- Charge at $1.5\,m$ height: Domestic line = $3\,kg$ ; High-voltage transmission line = $5\,kg$ (spalls concrete to buckle rebar).
- Charge at ground level: $C = 65 \times a^2 \times b$ where $C$ is in $kg$ , $a$ and $b$ in meters.
Barbed Wire Obstacles: Concentrated $12.5\,kg$ charge clears a $3.50\,m$ radius breach.
Vehicles and Aircraft:
- Automobiles/Trucks: $0.500\text{ to } 1.0\,kg$ placed on engine block, gearbox, or drive shaft. Motorcycles: $250\,g$ on engine.
- Tracked Armor: $3\text{ to } 10\,kg$ placed on final drives and track tensioners.
- Helicopters: $1.0\,kg$ on main rotor drive shaft + $0.500\,g$ in turbine assembly.

Specialized Charges and Ordnance Specifications

Shaped Charges (Charges à Effet Dirigé):
- Utilize a cavity liner (forged red copper) to generate hypervelocity metal jets. Requires standoff legs and polystyrène spacer blocks for underwater employment.
- CPER LEG MLE F1 (Light Perforating): Mass $745\,g$ ( $355\,g$ Hexolite 50/50). Penetrates $300\,mm$ armor steel ( $12\,mm$ hole) or $500\,mm$ concrete ( $20\,mm$ hole).
- CPER MOY MLE F1 (Medium Perforating): Mass $2.4\,kg$ ( $1.435\,kg$ Hexolite 60/40). Penetrates $300\,mm$ armor ( $16\,mm$ hole) or $600\,mm$ reinforced concrete ( $20\,mm$ hole).
- CPER LOU MLE F1 (Heavy Perforating): Mass $12.2\,kg$ ( $8.187\,kg$ Hexolite 60/40). Penetrates $500\,mm$ armor ( $30\,mm$ hole) or $1.70\,m$ reinforced concrete ( $50\,mm$ hole).
- CPER SOL MLE F1 (Soil Perforator): Mass $14\,kg$ ( $6.935\,kg$ Hexolite). Adjustable tripod. Blasts a $2 - 3\,m$ deep borehole ( $8\,cm$ entry, $15\,cm$ cavity) in soil.
- CCOU LEG MLE F1 (Light Cutting): Mass $15.4\,kg$ ( $11\,kg$ active, 2x 50cm elements). Cuts $80\,mm$ steel plate or $200\,mm$ reinforced concrete.
- CCOU MOY MLE F1 (Medium Cutting): Mass $46\,kg$ ( $30.24\,kg$ Hexolite, 5x 20cm elements). Cuts $200\,mm$ steel or $600\,mm$ reinforced concrete at $14\,cm$ standoff.
- CCOU LD 62 (Heavy Cutting): Mass $107.1\,kg$ ( $63.826\,kg$ Hexolite, 7x 15cm elements). Cuts $300\,mm$ armor or $600\,mm$ heavy reinforced concrete.
- Charge de Forage et de Destruction MLE F1 / F1A: Mass $55\,kg$ ( $52.31\,kg$ Hexal 70/30 pellets). Comprises 1 head container + 3 standard containers + 3 hexocire boosters + $20\,m$ CD. Inserted into boreholes for deep cratering.
- Charge Allongée Modèle F1 (CA MLE F1): Mass $53.7\,kg$ ( $40.688\,kg$ Hexolite). Assembly of 8 cylindrical elements ( $12\,m$ total length, $50\,mm$ diam). Clears $2\,m$ breach in minefields, $4\,m$ in barbed wire, or $10\,m$ in concertina.

Explosive Breaching (Effraction Chaude) Techniques

Operational Concept:
- Rapid creation of entry points through doors, windows, or light partitions using minimal explosive quantities to achieve shock, disruption, and immediate entry.
- Noise exposure limit under occupational health guidelines: 140 dB (C) peak in open air after hearing protection.
Breaching Charge Formations:

Sandwich Breaching Charge

Sandwich Construction: Detonating cord strands placed between strips of rubber, fire hose, or heavy plastic tape backed with double-sided adhesive. Attenuates rearward shockwave and directs energy into target.
Charge en "C": $30 - 40\,cm$ detonating cord loop placed over lock mechanisms of single-lock wood/metal doors.
Charge en "I": $15 - 30\,cm$ linear detonating cord strip taped vertically between handle and door frame.
Charge "Toute Hauteur": Full-height charge (e.g., 3 strands of CD = $6.6\,m$ for a $2.20\,m$ door = $126.4\,g$ TNT eq). Used for multi-point locking doors.
Charge "Toute Largeur": Full-width linear charge placed along the bottom frame strand of window sashes.
Bande Explosive Autocollante (BEA):
- Flexible self-adhesive explosive strip ( $2.10\,m \times 19\,mm$ ); active mass $138\,g$ ( $165\,g$ TNT eq). Placed along hinge side of doors or light brick/gypsum walls to shear hinges cleanly.

Corrected Shock Zones and Barrier Attenuation

Physics of Wave Reflection:
- Detonation generates an incident shockwave. Interaction with solid barriers or ground creates reflected waves. Near the ground, incident and reflected waves merge into a Mach stem (onde de Mach) with elevated peak overpressure below the triple point (point triple).

Mach Stem Wave Creation

Wall Shielding (Corrected ZC behind Wall $\ge 5\,m$ from Charge):
- Operators must stand close to wall ( $< 5\,m$ behind wall) and at least $1\,m$ away from wall edges to avoid diffracted wave edges.
- For charges $\le 100\,g$ TNT eq behind a solid wall with $30\,dB$ earplugs: Corrected ZC = $5\,m$ ; required setback behind wall = $0\,m$ .
Corner Shielding (Corrected ZC behind Building Corner):
- Charge must be positioned at least $1.8\,m$ away from corner.

Corner Attenuation Zone

For charges $\le 100\,g$ TNT eq with $30\,dB$ earplugs: Operator stance distance behind corner = $2.5\,m$ at an angle $\le 30^\circ$ relative to wall face.

Emergency Procedures, Misfires, and Transport Safety

Misfire (Raté) Management Protocols:
- A misfired charge is classified as dangerous unexploded ordnance (UXO). Tactical training is immediately halted; range remains locked down.
- Pyrotechnic Misfire:
- Observe for smoke. If smoking, maintain shelter. If no smoke, wait 30 minutes.
- D TEC-S approaches alone. Without moving or touching the misfired charge, place an elementary counter-charge ( $250\,g$ PETD or single detonator) alongside; wire line, retreat, fire, and wait 2 minutes.
- Electric Misfire:
- Attempt second fire. If still failed, disconnect exploder, short-circuit leads, wait 5 minutes.
- D TEC-S approaches alone, places counter-charge, fires, and waits 2 minutes.
- Shock Tube (MAFTOC) Misfire:
- If TOC uninitiated (white color): Attach secondary MAFTOC via connector and refire.
- If TOC initiated (grey color): Wait 10 minutes; place counter-charge, fire, and wait 2 minutes.
Unpriming (Désamorçage) Rules:
- Unpriming a known, intact system must be performed exclusively by the original operator who primed it.
- Pyrotechnic/Mixed: Re-engage safety pin/cap on igniter, extract detonator from charge, store in safety container, and disconnect CD branch lines.
- Electric: Disconnect exploder key, short-circuit lead wires, extract detonators, re-cap wires, and store in safety box.
- NEVER attempt to unprime an unknown or improvised device (EOD team required).
Transport and Storage Safety (ADR / TMD):
- Hazard Divisions: 1.1D (bulk explosives, CD, PETD, PEM, special charges); 1.4S / 1.4D (safety fuse, igniters); 1.4B / 1.4S (detonators).
- Detonators and secondary explosives must be transported in separate compartments/vehicles.
- Exemptions under $20\,kg$ active material limit: Standard driver, un-marked military vehicle, 2kg ABC extinguisher.
- Exemptions under military exercise orders (IM 5186 / TMD OPS): Transport between military depots/ZST-Mu and range exempt from ADR marking and speed restrictions, provided two trained drivers, fire extinguishers, written movement orders, and sealed original packaging are used.