The ground shock produced by subsurface explosion near buried structures generally
represents the dominant threat to these facilities. Due to various constraints, pertinent
experimental data are extremely scarce. Adequately detailed numerical simulation thus
becomes a desirable alternative. The use of commercially available codes, which are capable
of solving non-linear dynamic problems, validated against proven prediction techniques and
experimental data, can provide a cost-effective means of examining the highly dynamic
processes involved in the subsurface explosion and ground shock propagation. This paper sets
out to examine the potential of numerical analysis for investigating ground shock phenomena
from underground explosion in different sites. The finite element code AUTODYN, which is
available in 2-dimensional (2D) and 3-dimensional (3D) formats was employed. The study
presents best material models necessary to produce good correlation with free filed resultants
obtained from filed tests and CONWEP, an established experimentally-based prediction
technique. The validated numerical model is then used to study the ground shock propagation
in three different rock types; hard, moderate and soft rocks.