Chemical Mines

File: 950925_0pgv066_91p.txt
Page: 91p
Total Pages: 1
Chemical Mines

Filename:0pgv066.91p
Subject: Chemical Mines
1210\15 Feb 91   [ (b)(2) ]


	[  (b)(1) sec 1.3(a)(4)  ]



1.        Request all available information on the presence of 
chemical mines in the Iraqi inventory and in the KTO:

   a.         Numbers, types, sizes, agents, identification, 
countermeasures, disarming and disposal of chemical mines in the 
Iraqi inventory:

          [ (b)(2) ]             reporting on the presence of 
chemical mines in the Iraqi inventory. A recent and unverified 
report described an Iraqi chemical landmine. The Iraqis reportedly 
modified a U.S. manufactured N21 anti-tank mine. They are grey in 
color with yellow stripes on top, middle and bottom of the mine
in parallel configuration. The modification consisted of an 
additional opening in the top, similar to the fuze well, which was 
sealed with a plastic filler plug or screw. On top was an oval 
shaped button used to unscrew the filler plug/screw. No 
information was given as to the chemicals contained in the 
landmine.

	[  (b)(1) sec 1.3(a)(4)  ]

                   We have no information on how many chemical
mines Iraq has. We assess that they probably would be filled with 
mustard agent. We have no information on mine countermeasures, nor 
how they would be disarmed or disposed of.

   b.          Another type of chemical "mine" in Kuwait City has 
been described by several sources. This is a "mine" in the 
historical sense, and is perhaps better described as a chemical 
"ambush." These chemical ambushes consist of small bunker-type 
structures, often in a horseshoe shape, which have been partially
backfilled with earth and into which containers which appear to 
contain chemical agents have been placed. Ambushes described 
appear to contain approximately 20 gallons of two potential 
agents, presumably mustard and nonpersistent nerve agents. There 
is also a possibility that some of these ambushes may contain a
fuel-air explosive charge, which could be used to detonate the 
bunker and cause additional damage. No information is currently 
available on how the detonation would be initiated or controlled. 
 A chemical ambush such as this could be used to create both a 
local persistent hazard in the immediate area, and a vapor hazard 
in the downwind area. Two of these bunkers have been reported 
along Gulf
Street in Kuwait City, one near the U.S. Embassy and one at a 
public bath. There are believed to be several others at unknown 
locations throughout the city.

   c.



	[ (b)(2) ]




POC:               [ (b)(6) ]