Belgium’s Explosive Disposal Service Dismantles 3,100 Munitions in 2024

Belgium’s Explosive Disposal Service (SEDEE) has successfully destroyed over 3,100 munitions in 2024, continuing its critical work of dismantling unexploded ordnance from the First and Second World Wars.

These figures, provided by the Governor of West Flanders, Carl Decaluwe, underscore the ongoing impact of wartime explosives on Belgium’s landscape and the dedicated efforts of SEDEE in managing these hazards.

Most of the munitions dealt with by SEDEE are linked to unexploded projectiles dating back to the two World Wars.

The disposal process takes place primarily at SEDEE’s “Static Detonation Chamber” (SDC) in Langemark-Poelkappelle, a specialized facility designed to safely destroy hazardous ordnance.

The chamber allows the explosive materials to be neutralized in a controlled environment, ensuring the safety of personnel and the surrounding communities.

According to the data, nearly 3,000 interventions were carried out across the country in 2024, with a significant concentration of these operations in West Flanders.

The province, which was heavily affected by both World Wars, accounted for around 2,000 of the interventions. The figures were shared with Kurt Himpe, an N-VA provincial councillor, who confirmed the historical link between the munitions and the wars.

“This is, of course, linked to the First and Second World Wars,” Himpe stated, acknowledging that the remnants of these global conflicts continue to pose a threat decades later.

“The war’s aftermath is still with us, and SEDEE’s efforts are vital in keeping our communities safe from these long-buried dangers.”

The sheer volume of munitions disposed of highlights the scale of the problem. In 2023, SEDEE dismantled around 2,400 munitions, indicating that the demand for disposal services has increased this year.

As World War II ended more than 70 years ago, many explosives from the era are still buried or hidden in the Belgian soil, with some even turning up in more recent construction or agricultural projects.

The persistence of unexploded ordnance has been a long-standing issue for Belgium, particularly in regions such as West Flanders, where intense battles were fought during both world wars.

These explosives pose significant risks, especially to people working in or near areas where they may be disturbed.

In addition to their work at the Langemark-Poelkappelle facility, SEDEE experts regularly conduct interventions across Belgium, with particular attention to the provinces of West Flanders and Limburg.

These operations are carried out in collaboration with local authorities, who help ensure the safety of civilians during the disposal process.

Despite the challenging nature of this work, the success of SEDEE’s operations is a testament to the expertise and dedication of its personnel. Each year, the team’s efforts significantly reduce the risk of accidents involving these potentially deadly remnants of war.

The Belgian government has also taken steps to raise awareness of the ongoing dangers posed by unexploded ordnance, urging citizens to report suspicious items and remain vigilant in areas with known risks.

As Belgium continues to deal with the legacy of war, SEDEE’s work remains vital in protecting the public and securing the nation’s future.