Oregon DPSST Security Professional Practice Test

What component does an improvised explosive device (IED) have to have?

1. Container (backpack, clothing, pipes)

2. Explosive charge

3. Fusing system (detonator and ignition system)

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

An improvised explosive device (IED) typically consists of all the components listed in the options: a container, an explosive charge, and a fusing system. A container is essentially the delivery mechanism for the IED, making it easier to conceal until it's time for detonation. Containers can take the form of backpacks, vehicles, clothing, or pipes. The explosive charge is the component that creates the blast force in the IED. Without this, the device wouldn't be able to explode. This could be conventional military explosives, homemade explosives, or even something as simple as gunpowder. The fusing system, typically consisting of a detonator and ignition system, is the triggering mechanism that sets off the explosive charge. This can be done in various ways such as by receiving a radio signal, a timer counting down, or a tripwire being triggered. As such, for an object to be classified as an IED, it has to include all these components hence making all of the above the correct answer. Having only one or two out of the three components would not make the object an IED.