Surviving an IED Blast: The Pain of Detonation

Landmines have varying fuse settings, with anti-personnel mines designed to detonate with as little as 10-15 pounds of force, making them unpredictable. Unlike anti-tank mines, which require about 200-300 pounds of force to activate, simple actions like stepping might set off the former, while the latter is typically safe for a casual passerby. If you survive the initial impact, the pain will set in shortly.

Initial Impact and Pain Post-Detonation

If you happen to step on an anti-personnel mine, you might not immediately feel the impact. The blast would likely release you into shock before you experienced unimaginable pain. The intensity of this pain would depend on the extent of the injury, which could range from severe maiming to the loss of a limb.

In the case of an antitank mine, the initial impact would typically not harm you, as it is designed for much greater force. It is the subsequent detonation that would cause catastrophic injuries, including the loss of limbs. Remember, the pain would be excruciating, more akin to having your legs blown off by a powerful explosion.

Risks and Intended Outcomes

The intended outcome of landmines, especially in conflicts like those in Vietnam, was not to kill but to incapacitate and severely maim soldiers. Mines in Vietnam were carefully designed to minimize weight, making them easily transported from the logistical centers in the north. Their main purpose was to instill fear and demoralization among American forces by causing horrific injuries.

Consider the experiences of infantrymen in Vietnam. Several soldiers stepped on mines and suffered severe injuries. One soldier lost half his foot, while another received chest shrapnel that rapidly proved fatal. If you managed to survive, the pain would be immense, and the process of healing would be full of challenges.

Ethical Considerations and Ban of Landmines

Landmines, due to their indiscriminate nature and dangerous outcomes, are considered among the most unethical weapons in warfare. Even devices like the British 'debollockers,' which merely amputate the lower leg, or those with ball bearings that riddle the body, fall under the same category. The International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL) has led a global movement to eliminate these weapons, and as of 2023, more than 164 countries have signed the Ottawa Treaty, committing to their prohibition.

Read more about the humanitarian consequences of landmines and the ongoing efforts to ban them:

International Campaign to Ban Landmines UN Mine Action Service

If you are ever in a warzone or suspect a landmine is nearby, avoid walking and move cautiously. Landmines can remain active for decades, causing harm long after the conflict has ended. Always be aware and follow the advice of local authorities and humanitarian organizations.

Conclusion

No, stepping on a landmine will not cause immediate pain. The pain will arise from the catastrophic injuries sustained during the detonation. These injuries are often life-altering, and the recovery process is both traumatic and challenging. Understanding the nature of these weapons and their effects is crucial in the ongoing efforts to lessen their humanitarian impact and promote peace.