In 1994 a bitter confl ict broke out between the forces of the Chechnen independence movement and the Russian regular army. Despite overwhelming manpower, weaponry and air support, the Russian forces were unable to establish eff ective permanent control over the mountainous area due to many successful Chechen guerrilla raids. Improvised Explosive Devices were one of the most effective methods employed in these disastrous raids and were the back drop to many Close Quarter Battle scenarios exchanged between the two sides.