scorched earth

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In warfare, the policy of burning and destroying everything that might be of use to an invading army, especially the crops in the fields. It was used to great effect in Russia in 1812 against the invasion of the French emperor Napoleon and again during World War II to hinder the advance of German forces in 1941.

The crown emblem was modernized in 1982. The colours date back to the 18th century. Effective date: 18 September 1982. >>