In UXO surveys, which item can lead to misidentification of threats?

The item that can lead to misidentification of threats during UXO surveys is metal debris from previous military training. This is due to the fact that remnants of former military activities may consist of a wide range of metallic objects, including non-explosive items, which can produce signals similar to those emitted by unexploded ordnance. Survey teams often rely on geophysical techniques that detect metal, and the presence of various types of debris can confound these signals, making it difficult to determine if a detected object is an actual UXO or just scrap metal.

Natural formations, wildlife, and improper equipment usage can influence survey outcomes as well, but they do not produce the same direct ambiguity in signals as metal debris does. Natural formations might create some interference in readings, while wildlife could be a distraction; however, they do not typically emit signals mistaken for explosive ordnance. Improper equipment usage can lead to incorrect readings or false negatives, but the specific challenge of accurately identifying UXOs is most critically impacted by the presence of metallic debris from prior military exercises.