JChM-2
The JChM-2 (from Menghean 지뢰, 대전차, 막대기, Jiroe, Daejŏncha, Makdaegi, "Mine, Anti-Tank, Bar" is a type of anti-tank bar mine developed in Menghe in the mid-2000s and first deployed in 2007. It incorporates an upward-facing linear shaped charge to cut into vehicles' underside armor. It was developed to supplement the JChM-1, which is longer in length but also narrower in diameter and relies on a regular high-explosive charge.
Design
The JChM-2 mine is in the shape of a trapezoidal prism, with one side noticeably wider than the others. It is laid with this side facing down, and the trapezoid's narrower base facing up. The mine can be activated either by direct pressure or by magnetic influence, with a brief delay built in so that it detonates under the vehicle's rear or middle, depending on speed. With a steel body and a copper charge lining, it is sensitive to magnetic mine detectors, but it also incorporates anti-handling fuses on either end which will detonate the mine if it is moved. An adjustable dial allows the crew to set the mine's time until automatic self-destruction, if desired - from 6 hours to 2 weeks, or without limit.
Its explosive charge contains a single, upward-facing, copper-lined linear shaped charge. Like other bar mines, its main purpose is to damage a vehicle's wheels, treads, and/or suspension, immobilizing it. In addition, however, the JChM-2 can penetrate the floor armor on most combat vehicles, breaking torsion bars, injuring crew members, and damaging other internal systems, possibly destroying the tank outright if floor ammunition stowage is used. The magnetic influence sensor improves the chances of such a kill by detonating the mine even if the vehicle's tracks or wheels do not directly come into contact with it.
The basic version of the mine must be deployed by engineer forces on the ground. They can be buried by hand, though a specialized mine-laying plow for towing behind a vehicle also exists. Engineers are instructed to arrange the mines in rows perpendicular to the enemy's direction of approach.
Remotely deployed version
There is also a remotely deployed version of the mine, designated JChM-2JB (with the suffix indicating 자동 복원형, Jadong Bogwŏnhyŏng, "self-righting"). This carries metal fins folded alongside the legs of the trapezoid, forming a rough triangular prism. Once a launched mine lands on the ground and comes to rest, these fins fold outward, ensuring that the mine's top is facing upward.
This type can be deployed by a variety of systems, including short-range mine projectors, aerial canister bombs, and multiple rocket launchers of 150mm and 230mm caliber. Like land-deployed mines, they can be programmed to detonate after 6 hours to one week, or to remain active indefinitely.
Specifications
- Weight: 4.6 kg
- Length: 33 cm
- Width: 82 cm
- Height: 58 cm
- Explosive content: 1.2 kg
- Approximate penetration: 100 mm
- Self-destruct option: yes
- Fuse life: 1 year
- Shelf life: 20 years
Note that these specifications refer only to the base mine itself; the JChM-2JB's self-righting fins add additional weight and size.