Regarding the IEDs... this is just some of what I read, and is in no way researched or whatnot.
It used to be that IEDs were usually remotely detonated small shells (such as morter shells) to large shells (such as artillery shells). But increasingly, they are finding more advanced IEDs that are actually
purpose-engineered shaped charges. Some intel alleges these are being provided by Iranian military forces.
Regarding placement, earlier in the conflict the IEDs were mainly just hidden along roadsides - hidden in trash, debris, or animal carcasses. Just as the IEDs have evolved, so have the tactics.
This is from an Air Force guy I know:
Quote:
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There is a lot of construction of new roads going on [in Iraq], so they will find where a road is being paved and place the IED in the ground under where the road will be paved. When the paved road is completed they will come back and finish the setup of the IED so they can detonate it. It is starting to get to the point now where we cannot look for the things we use to like trash on the side of the road or dead animals. We are paving over the bombs now completely hiding them.
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Here is an excellent video showing an IED detonated in a convoy. It was placed in a culvert than ran below the road. Luckily, it was either too deep, or the charge failed to ignite fully.
THIS is how our troops are dying now. Not by face to face conflict, but by a cowardly enemy who has time and home-field advantage both on his side.
H