OVERVIEW: C-4 is a plastic high explosive used extensively for sabotage, demolition, and contact-based explosive charges. In sabotage roles, it is manually emplaced with a contact fuze to destroy infrastructure, vehicles, or materiel through direct blast effect.

DETAILS: C-4 stands for Composition C-4, a moldable plastic explosive composed primarily of RDX (91%) combined with plasticizers and binders to provide stability and flexibility. It can be shaped and attached to various surfaces, making it ideal for sabotage missions requiring concealed or precisely directed charges. When configured as a contact bomb, C-4 is fitted with a pressure, impact, or tamper-sensitive fuze that triggers detonation upon physical contact. It is highly stable under normal conditions, insensitive to shock or fire, and requires a detonator for activation. Its high brisance and energy make it effective against structural supports, engine blocks, or rail systems during sabotage operations.

TYPE: Moldable High Explosive (Plastic Explosive)

FUNCTION: When configured as a contact sabotage bomb, C-4 is manually emplaced on a target and fitted with a contact fuze, detonating upon pressure or impact. The explosion causes localized but powerful destruction suitable for infrastructure disabling or equipment neutralization.

NOTE:
Conflict used in: Vietnam War (1965), Gulf War (1991), Iraq War (2003), Afghanistan War (2001), numerous special operations

SOURCE:
U.S. Army Field Manual FM 3-34.214 Explosives and Demolitions: https://irp.fas.org/doddir/army/fm3-34-214.pdf ; U.S. Army TM 43-0001-29: https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/policy/army/tm/43-0001-29/index.html ; Jane’s Mines and Mine Clearance ; CIA Explosives for Sabotage Manual ; NATO Demolitions Handbook