Iraqi Army Buys Explosive Systems Worth $33 Million

The Iraqi army has purchased nearly 500 explosive systems for around $33 million from Charleston-based Critical Solutions International.

Soldiers use the systems, called Bandolier Lightweight Multi-Purpose Clearing Charges, to clear obstacles and create safe mobility lanes.

“These new capabilities … enable trained Iraqi soldiers to effectively create safe passage through known and suspected danger areas and obstacles,” the release said. “The Bandolier is effective against all obstacles typically found on the battlefield, so soldiers can be armed with a single lightweight explosive system, capable of performing a range of tasks, eliminating the need for multiple mission-specific systems.”

The Iraqi army plans to use the portable systems “to help bridge Iraq’s current capability gaps in their fight to retake northwestern regions of the country,” the release said.

Work will be performed in Charleston with an estimated completion date of June 4, 2017. Army Contracting Command of Warren, Mich., awarded the contract.