VS-MK2 mine

The VS-MK-2 is an Italian plastic bodied scatterable anti-personnel blast mine. The mine is extremely difficult to detect because of its low metal content. Additionally, it is resistant to blast overpressure due to a pneumatic system incorporated into the fuze. The mine will also function in up to 1 meter of water. An electrically fuzed anti-handling version of the mine was also produced designated VS-MK-2-EL, VS-MK-2-E or VS-MK2 AR-AN to hinder clearance attempts. Although Italy has ceased production of the mine it may still be found in Angola, Sudan and the Western Sahara.

Description

The mine is circular and normally olive green or sand colored. The top of the mine has a black neoprene plunger/pressure plate, which rests on a small spring. The mine is internally divided into two sections separated by a small air bleed hole. When the plunger is compressed, air is forced through the bleed hole equalizing pressure in the upper and lower section. When the mine experiences sudden overpressure an air bladder inflates caused by the differential in pressure between the upper and lower sections, this prevents the activation of the mine. When constant pressure is applied the pressure equalizes gradually and the mine is activated, a striker is driven sideways by the plunger, detonating the horseshoe shaped explosive charge.

pecifications

* Weight: 135 g
* Explosive content: 33 g of RDX/wax.
* Diameter: 90 mm
* Height: 32 mm
* Operating pressure: 12 kg

ee also

*VS-50 mine
*TS-50 mine
*TC/6 mine

References

* "Jane's Mines and Mine Clearance 2005-2006"