Improvised Explosive Device (IED) used by the Islamic State Forces, 2016 (c)

Although rudimentary in appearance this is a sophisticated IED pressure plate, using a wire switch, which is low in metal content. It is difficult to detect with a metal detector and is highly sensitive. It was recovered during the Battle of Mosul (16 October 2016 - 20 July 2017).

Once items such as this were recovered they were sent to the Military Base in Besmaya, Iraq. There, they were analysed by UK Bomb Disposal Operators, Intelligence officers and Royal Military Police Forensic Experts. The aim was to use fingerprints and DNA to identify specific makers of IEDs and recognise trends or significant changes in IED construction. This information was then passed to Iraqi officials to use in the fight against the Islamic State.