The US Army needs to get rid of old explosives near its new artillery ammo plant. They're too dangerous to move, so it's blowing them up.
The controlled detonation of the toxic degraded material will occur in the coming weeks, with temporary evacuations planned for residents.
The US Army is set to detonate 68 barrels of outdated explosive material at its new artillery ammunition plant in Iowa. The lead azide, which has been stored at the site for nearly two decades, is no longer required for ammunition production and has been deemed too dangerous to relocate. Officials are working closely with nearby residents to address environmental concerns related to the detonation.
The facility will also be home to the Army's new 155mm artillery production line, which began construction earlier this year. About 55 homes near the plant may need to be evacuated temporarily during the detonation, and the Army has offered alternative housing at the Army Reserve Center. The Army will conduct air, water, and soil tests before and after the explosion to ensure the area's safety.
This decision comes amid increased demand for 155mm artillery shells due to recent conflicts, with the US ramping up production to support Ukraine.
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