A cluster bomb is a form of explosive weapon that releases or ejects smaller submunitions. These submunitions, also known as bomblets, are designed to kill personnel and destroy vehicles. Cluster bombs can be delivered by air, artillery, or missiles.
Cluster bombs are dangerous for two main reasons:
- They have a wide area of effect. When a cluster bomb is deployed, it releases hundreds or even thousands of bomblets over a large area. This means that anyone in the vicinity of the explosion is at risk of being killed or injured.
- They leave behind a large number of unexploded bomblets. Even if a cluster bomb is deployed perfectly, not all of the bomblets will explode. This means that there is a risk of unexploded bomblets remaining on the ground long after the conflict has ended. These unexploded bomblets can pose a danger to civilians for many years to come.
In fact, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) estimates that up to 40% of bomblets fail to explode. This means that for every 100 cluster bombs deployed, up to 40 of the bomblets will remain unexploded.
Unexploded bomblets can be extremely dangerous. They can explode if they are stepped on, picked up, or even moved slightly. This has resulted in the deaths and injuries of many civilians, including children.
For these reasons, cluster bombs are considered to be a particularly inhumane weapon. They are indiscriminate, meaning that they do not distinguish between military and civilian targets. This makes them a major threat to civilians, especially in densely populated areas.
In 2008, an international treaty known as the Convention on Cluster Munitions was adopted. This treaty bans the use, production, transfer, and stockpiling of cluster bombs. As of 2023, 120 countries have signed the treaty, but some major countries, such as the United States, Russia, and China, have not.
Despite the dangers of cluster bombs, they are still used in conflicts around the world. This is because they are relatively cheap and easy to use. However, the use of cluster bombs is a violation of international humanitarian law, and it is a major concern for humanitarian organizations.