October 1, 2011: American military advisors have arranged the purchase of over a thousand “Minehound” VMR2 hand-held mine detectors for the Afghan security forces. These four kilogram (8.8) pound devices include a metal detector and ground penetrating radar. The latter is used to detect mines with no metal in them. The VMR2 is already used by American forces, and some of the Afghan mine clearing troops are already familiar with this equipment.

Afghan troops will use the VMR2 to search for landmines that the Taliban are using with increasing frequency, as well as roadside bombs and anti-vehicle mines on dirt roads. Many of these bombs and mines contain no metal.