Slurry Line Charge Explosive (SLICE)
Challenge ended
Description
One Nation Innovation, in close collaboration with the XVIII Airborne Corps and the 20th Engineer Brigade, is proud to issue this capability challenge as part of a strategic effort to accelerate technological integration within operational units. This project has conducted experimentation using a liquified explosive (Slurry) to create a line charge that can breach minefields. The current prototype consists of a trailer containing a 250-gallon slurry tank, a pump to dispense the explosive via a 500’ layflat discharge hose, and a platform that supports an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) used to deploy the hose. This system is transported to the breach location by an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV), which autonomously detaches from the trailer. The UAS dispenses the hose, the pump activates on a timer, and the slurry is pumped into the hose to create the line charge. The prototype is designed for single use and is destroyed upon detonation.
Overall Objective
With a previous proof of concept completed, this challenge seeks the development of a next-generation SLICE system. This challenge seeks to develop a next-generation SLICE system that addresses the limitations of the initial prototype. Specifically, the desired solution must: Be modular and not reliant on a trailer-based configuration. Be reusable, including mechanisms for crimping or cutting the hose post-deployment. Be compatible with multiple deployment platforms, including UAS, small UGVs, or small rockets. Deliver three fully functional working prototypes. The objective is to enable more agile, reliable, and scalable breaching operations in support of forward-deployed forces. Solutions should prioritize reduced logistical burden, operational versatility, and ease of integration with current or near-term unmanned systems.
Problem Statement
As part of ongoing efforts to enhance breaching capabilities in contested environments, a prototype system—referred to as SLICE—was developed to deliver a liquified explosive (slurry) in a line charge configuration for minefield breaching operations. The initial proof of concept demonstrated a single-use, trailer-based system comprised of a 250-gallon slurry tank, a pump connected to a 500-foot layflat hose, and a hose deployment mechanism mounted on an Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). The entire system is transported to the breach site by an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV), which autonomously detaches the trailer. Once on site, the UAS deploys the hose while the pump dispenses the slurry on a preset timer, culminating in detonation of the line charge. While successful as a demonstration, the current system is limited by its size, single-use design, and trailer-bound configuration. These constraints hinder mobility, reduce reusability, and limit deployment flexibility across diverse operational environments.