Russian traps mimic Viet Cong tactics as modernization falters
The Russians are increasingly resorting to primitive fighting methods. One such method includes anti-personnel traps, which can be described as a modern version of the famous Viet Cong traps based on punji sticks. Here, we explain these traps and how they compare to modern solutions.
7:11 PM EDT, July 10, 2024
A photo has surfaced online showing a batch of traps created by the Russians, heavily inspired by Viet Cong techniques from the Vietnam War era. In the photo below, traps similar to snares are built using boxes that need only to be buried. The primary difference is using nails welded with a MIG welder instead of the carved bamboo sticks (punji sticks) known from the Vietnamese originals.
The trap consists of boards studded with nails, which, when stepped on in the right place, are designed to rise from the ground and close, driving the nails into the leg above the boot and hindering the soldier. The wounds are not fatal if medical help is received, but for the attacking group, it effectively means one less rifle.
In the second photo, you can see excavated pits with grates that most likely serve to "discipline" Russian soldiers who refuse to take part in infantry charges, also known as "meat assaults." It is also possible that the pits are used to hold prisoners if any are captured.
Vietnamese-style traps vs. modern solutions
This is a very primitive method, indicating that the Russian unit using it lacks modern solutions to secure the area, such as MON-50 directional mines or similar devices.
In today's times, mines are the key method of securing paths against enemy activity. Depending on their type, mines may have proximity fuses or be detonated by pulling a pre-stretched wire hooked to a nearby tree.
They also offer significant destructive power, as they typically create a literal "wall of shrapnel" with an effective range of approximately 55 yards upon detonation, allowing them to hit an entire assault group. The same cannot be said for the Vietnamese-style traps, which until recently could only be seen in museums.
