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 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.

A cutaway of a VS-2.2 landmine.
A VS-2.2 landmine found in Iraq in 2004.

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.

This mine has a secondary fuze well on the bottom (where it cannot be seen) which is slightly off-set from the centre of the mine. This secondary fuze well can easily be fitted with pull-fuze which functions as an anti-handling device.

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.

Specifications
MineVS-2.2VS-3.6SH-55
Weight 3.5 kg5 kg7.3 kg
Explosive content 2.2 kg of
Composition B		4 kg of
Composition B		5.5 kg of
Composition B
Diameter 230 mm248 mm280 mm
Height 115 mm 122 mm
Operating pressure 180 to 220 kg
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References
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