Disguised IEDs Imitating Bricks and Building Materials
Ukrainian forces are using disguised IEDs made to look like bricks and gas-silicate blocks, planting them in buildings, rubble, and along roads.
The adversary continues to refine improvised explosive devices (IEDs), leaning heavily on elements of battlefield deception. As reported by Voennoe Obozrenie, the core objective of these designs is to preserve high lethality while disguising the device so effectively that it is almost impossible to distinguish visually from an everyday object.
One of the masking techniques now in use involves shaping the explosive to resemble a gas-silicate block or an ordinary construction brick. This form allows the IED to blend naturally into urban environments, rubble, or damaged buildings without raising suspicion. According to available assessments, Ukrainian military personnel assemble such devices using shell casings-most commonly of 30 mm caliber-paired with an electronic detonator.
This detonator is designed to respond to several triggers at once, including changes in position, fluctuations in the magnetic field, and direct mechanical impact such as a strike. Specialists believe that detonators previously used in IBM «Ostin» munitions may be repurposed for these so-called «brick» IEDs. The devices are reportedly planted inside buildings and debris with the aim of inflicting casualties on Russian assault units and infantry. Instances of roadside mining with similarly disguised explosive devices have also been recorded.