In high-stakes security and combat environments, breaching techniques are indispensable for overcoming physical barriers and achieving mission-critical objectives, reports Alford Technologies.
Breaching techniques – particularly explosive methods of entry (EMoE) – are employed across law enforcement, military and disaster response scenarios, where rapid access to fortified or obstructed areas is essential.
For law enforcement, breaching is a high stakes balancing act between speed and safety.
Critical applications include: Hostage rescues, where every second can make a difference between life and death; counter-terrorism – the 2008 Mumbai attacks underscored the need for rapid entry to neutralise active shooters; high-risk arrests – barricaded suspects, particularly in drug raids or gang-related arrests, often necessitate explosive or ballistic breaching.
In modern warfare, breaching techniques are a cornerstone of tactical assault planning.
Military units frequently encounter fortified enemy positions, ranging from underground bunkers to urban strongholds.
EMoE enables rapid penetration of defences, preserving the element of surprise and reducing casualties.
Moreover, in disaster response scenarios, breaching techniques can save lives by providing access to individuals trapped in collapsed buildings or other inaccessible areas.
When traditional methods fail, EMoE offers a rapid and effective alternative.
The goal is to achieve a 100% positive breach in every operation – however, several factors can hinder, delay or negatively impact the process.
Access points like external and internal doors, walls, roofs, floors and windows may be relatively easy to bypass or require extensive resources, planning, intelligence and specialised teams and equipment.
Key elements include surprise, speed and decisiveness in action, whether the operation occurs during the day or at night.
It is crucial to reach objectives without alerting the target.
Operations may not always occur at night and timing can be critical.
When planning, one must consider factors like the adversary’s potential reactions, such as arming themselves, relocating, or destroying evidence.
Additional risks may arise from secondary threats, especially in areas known for gang violence, where retaliation and the escalation of violence could occur, leading to public disorder incidents.
Factors such as the presence of animals, children or other family members, as well as religious or cultural aspects and physical hazards at the location, must also be considered during the planning phase.
Hostage negotiations may break down, resulting in immediate action to resolve the situation.
Any delay may result in an increased threat to assault teams, response teams, emergency services, residents or even bystanders.
Occupants might be of ill health and unpredictable.
Criminals, terrorists and adversaries have been known to produce and use booby traps or improvised explosive devices to protect their illegal activities and property, which impedes access.
Breaching techniques and operations walk a tightrope between necessity and proportionality.
Certain restrictions or guidelines must be met and approved as force is used to gain entry – and usually without the occupants’ consent.
These considerations include appropriate, serviceable breaching equipment, personal protective equipment and risk to life from activities, resistance and threats.
Tactical access operations are complex and demand careful consideration of key principles.
For example, all actions must be authorised and conducted within the powers delegated to law enforcement.
This is to protect operators and the public, as directed by government mandates, crime prevention strategies and counter-terrorism acts.
Breaching techniques are typically justified when there’s an immediate threat to life, a need to detain high-value individuals for prosecution or a risk of individuals harming themselves or others.
This also extends to situations involving the destruction or concealment of evidence
Breaching techniques also require a high levels of expertise, including continuous professional development, familiarity with state-of-the-art technology and equipment and ongoing continuation training.
Ammunition and explosives are expensive and require current, competent certification for their use.
Successful operations rely on the skilful application of tactics and complete trust in both equipment and team members.
In addition, breaching techniques and operations present numerous hazards, some identifiable and others more subtle: Immediate threats to life – includes armed occupants, guard animals or the presence of explosive materials, homemade explosives (HME) or drugs, each with its specific risks; injury to personnel – depending on the method of entry, personnel may be at an increased risk of harm; potential for investigation – allegations of excessive force or abuse of authority can undermine public trust and lead to financial compensation.
A variety of methods and tools can be employed to achieve entry, each with advantages and limitations.
Manual tools, such as rams, sledgehammers, pry bars, hooligan/Halligan tools and rakes, are used to remove or break locking systems and clear obstructions like glass and barricades.
Mechanical equipment, including disk cutters and chainsaws, may be suitable depending on the target and operational requirements.
Thermal and hydraulic tools provide an effective means of entry but can be cumbersome and slow.
EMoE, while potentially the most rapid, carry inherent risks to the user, law enforcement personnel, the structure and any occupants.
No tool is universally suitable for every situation and environment.
EMoE might be considered a last resort or the only viable option to gain entry. It presents both positive and negative aspects:
Many companies supply specialist breaching techniques, equipment, PPE and explosive charges, often providing advice and training.
Industry symposiums bring the global breaching community together, offering a valuable way to enhance safety, improve productivity, expand knowledge and exchange information.
Breaching techniques, particularly EMoE, are critical in modern security operations, offering rapid access in scenarios ranging from law enforcement and military engagements to disaster response.
While EMoE presents tactical advantages, its application demands meticulous planning, rigorous training and an understanding of the inherent risks.
The ethical considerations surrounding the use of force, the potential for unintended harm and the need for strict adherence to legal and operational guidelines can’t be overstated.
As technology advances and operational environments evolve, continued innovation in breaching techniques, equipment and risk mitigation strategies will be essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of tactical access operations.
Ultimately, the successful application of breaching techniques hinges on a commitment to professionalism, a dedication to minimising harm and a constant pursuit of improved methods and best practices.
This article was originally published in the May edition of Security Journal UK. To read your FREE digital edition, click here.
