Rise in military explosive disposals - Enhanced weapon seizures observed in recent times
Increased Munition Clearances Reported in Lower Saxony for 2024
Specialists from the Lower Saxony Explosive Ordnance Disposal Service have reported a significant increase in their workload due to a rise in construction activities across the region. In 2024, approximately 221 tons of unexploded ordnance from the two World Wars were recovered and disposed of at 1,216 incidents, according to the Ministry of the Interior in Hannover. This represents a 34% increase in tonnage and a 17% increase in incidents compared to the previous year.
The abundance of World War-era munitions hidden in the Lower Saxon soil is a continuing concern, as these discoveries are becoming more common due to ongoing infrastructure development. In particular, the road modernization offensive has led to an increase in the discovery of unexploded ordnance.
Last year, nearly 23 tons of unexploded ordnance were recovered from the Lower Saxon North Sea. This figure represents a more than doubling of the tonnage found in 2023, which was approximately 10 tons. The hike in recovered ordnance is attributed to the expansion of infrastructure in the North Sea.
Interior Minister Daniela Behrens (SPD) emphasized the need for the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Service due to the high volume of dangerous munitions still present in the Lower Saxon soil. "Thanks to the expertise and dedication of the highly qualified employees, potentially hazardous explosive devices are reliably located and rendered safe every day," said Behrens in a statement.
In Hannover, a phosphorus incendiary bomb was discovered on a demolition site. When the fire department and policemen attempted to cover the bomb with sand while waiting for the disposal experts, they were injured by the harmful smoke emitted by the phosphorus. Incidents such as this underscore the necessity of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Service in ensuring public safety.
In addition, the Ministry of the Interior reported an increase in non-transportable unexploded ordnance compared to last year. At 77 incidents, the ammunition had to be detonated directly at the recovery site, which was required in 23 cases in 2023.
Germany's commitment to humanitarian demining is evident through its role as a major donor to global mine clearance efforts. Advances in technologies like drones and unmanned ground vehicles (as demonstrated by companies like Rheinmetall) could enhance the efficiency and safety of clearance operations, and potentially be integrated into future efforts.
By removing dangerous areas, regions can become more accessible for construction, agriculture, and other economic activities, contributing to local economic growth. Furthermore, removing explosive remnants helps preserve natural habitats and reduces the risk of accidents that could harm wildlife.
The increase in munition clearance efforts in Lower Saxony likely reflects a combination of historical necessity, technological advancements, and commitment to safety and economic development.
- The community policy of Lower Saxony should emphasize the importance of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Service in maintaining public safety, given the rise in unearthed World War-era munitions due to infrastructure development.
- To support the growing demand for munition clearance, the employment policy within the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Service might need to be revised in order to accommodate the rising number of discoveries, particularly in the field of environmental science and health-and-wellness, considering the potential hazards associated with these munitions.
- In light of the increasing number of discoveries in Lower Saxony, implementing a science-backed strategy for managing and disposing of unexploded ordnance could be essential, not only for protecting public health but also for ensuring the longevity and sustainability of the region's environment and space-and-astronomy industries.
