Ukraine bolsters defences with new American ADAM mines
The Ukrainian army has received new support in the form of ADAM (Area Denial Artillery Munition) anti-personnel mines, which are already being used against Russian forces, according to the Ukrainian portal Defense Express. This weapon helps counter the so-called Russian "human wave" attacks.
In autumn 2024, reports began circulating on social media indicating that the Ukrainian armed forces would receive additional support against these "human wave" attacks. Initially, there was mention of unspecified anti-personnel mines to be provided by the United States. It is now confirmed that the Pentagon has supplied Ukraine with 155 mm artillery shells equipped with ADAM mines, as evidenced by photos published online. This marks the first appearance of ADAMs on the front in Ukraine.
Modern ADAM mines in the hands of Ukrainian soldiers
ADAM mines were first seen with soldiers from the 24th Independent Mechanized Brigade named after King Danylo. OSINT analysts have identified these as M692 shells, each containing 36 M67 anti-personnel mines. There is also an M731 variant, which holds 36 mines of a different type, known as M72. The latter variant is designed to self-destruct after a short delay of 48 hours, whereas the former, containing M67 mines, self-destructs after four hours.
ADAM anti-personnel mines
These anti-personnel mines are launched from the American M109 self-propelled howitzer, enabling the shells to achieve a range of nearly 11 miles.
The purpose of anti-personnel mines is to injure or eliminate enemy units. Upon impact, the shell releases wires that activate the mines. The detonation occurs using electric current, and when the battery charge falls below a certain level, the mine self-destructs.
In the event of a malfunction whereby self-destruction does not occur, the battery of this ammunition completely discharges after 14 days, rendering the mine inactive. A single M692/M731 shell weighs just under 7 stone and measures approximately 3 feet.
