Mine Detection in Dry Soils Using Radar

Abstract : The detection of mines and subsurface ordnance continues to present a challenging problem for both the Army and U.S. Marine Corps. An initiative was launched by the Army's Topographic Engineering Center (TEC) to determine the feasibility of using penetrating radars to detect subsurface objects in very dry soils. A test site was selected at Twenty-nine Palms, CA, and soil samples were collected and analyzed. The soils were very dry, containing on average less than 2 percent moisture, and consist mainly of fine sand with some gravel. An analysis of soils collected in the Middle East showed they were sufficiently comparable for the demonstration. A minefield test site was constructed reflecting known doctrine and combat engineering practices. Metallic and nonmetallic mines were emplaced on the surface and at varying depths. Corner reflectors were placed around the test site, both on the surface as well as underground. Overflights were conducted utilizing X-, C- and L- band radars.