Massive explosion at an ammunition factory near Rome
A powerful explosion occurred at an ammunition manufacturing plant in the town of Colleferro, about 40 km southeast of Rome. According to authorities, the fire that preceded the explosion broke out in a department where gunpowder compression is carried out. No casualties were reported.
An explosion occurred today, Thursday, at an ammunition manufacturing plant in the town of Colleferro, about 40 km southeast of Rome, Italian authorities reported. Police and fire crews were called to the scene, and complex operations are underway in the area following the incident.
According to reports in Italy, the facility was previously owned by the company Simmel Difesa and is currently owned by KNDS Ammo Italy, part of the German defense group KNDS. The factory produces medium and large caliber ammunition for land and naval defense systems, as well as solid propellants for aircraft and space applications.
The explosion occurred after a fire broke out at the plant, and according to local reports, the source of the incident was in the department where gunpowder compression is carried out. At this stage, there are no reports of casualties.
The Carabinieri stated that emergency teams are on the scene and that "complex operations" are being carried out. The cause of the fire and explosion is currently under investigation. The incident takes place against the backdrop of the activities of KNDS, one of the largest defense industry groups in Europe, which manufactures weapons systems and ammunition for armies in various countries on the continent.
