DIM 203-90

                                                               November 1990



                       Defense Intelliegence Memorandum



SUBJECT: The Iraqi Fuel-Air Expolsives (FAE) Threat





                                  Key Judgments



      Iraq has a significant FAE capability from both air and dropped bombs and

multiple rocket launchers (MRL's), resulting from technology transfer and direct

involvement by western firms.  These weapons are designed for wide range area

coverage.



[b.1.sec.1.5(c)]



      FAE effects may be misreported as resulting from a chemical attack.  If the

fuel does not ignite, the toxic fuel could cause respiratory difficulties and

skin

blistering similar to those caused by choking and blister agents.  Injuries and

deaths caused by FAE detonations outside the fireball may be confused with those 

caused by the nerve agents because of the virtual absence of visible physical

damage.