VS-N fuzed mines

The VS-2.2, VS-3.6 and SH-55 are Italian circular plastic cased anti-tank blast mines that use the VS-N series fuze. They have very few metal components and are resistant to overpressure and shock. The VS-2.2 and VS-3.6 can also be deployed from helicopters. It was produced by Valsella Meccanotecnica SpA and Singapore, but production has ceased. The VS-2.2 and VS-3.6 are essentially the same, the VS-3.6 being slightly larger, the SH-55 is larger still and has a more rounded appearance. A smaller mine, the VS-1.6 also uses the same fuze.

Description

The mines are normally olive green or sand coloured and are circular. The VS-2.2 and VS-3.6 consist of a ribbed main body containing the main charge and a large circular VS-N fuze which sits on top. The SH-55 is larger, and the circular main body is not as ribbed, it uses the same VS-N fuze as the other mines.

The VS-N fuze is air pressure driven with pressure on the top plate of the mine forcing air into a diaphragm which exerts pressure on the striker until a retaining ball is forced into a recess. Shocks from overpressure are too short to inflate the diaphragm, this requires gradual pressure giving even greater resistance to shock.

The main charge of the VS-2.2 is relatively small for an anti-tank mine, so it would tend to disable rather than destroy vehicles, however the VS-3.6 and SH-55 may penetrate the hull of armoured vehicles.

The VS-2.2 mine is found in Iraq and Kuwait, the SH-55 is found in Afghanistan.

pecifications

References

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