Skip navigation

0Meta Navigation

× Close search

Navigation

Home
Resources

Moldovan army destroys surplus bombs with OSCE expertise

15 November 2011
  • The disposal operations take place in deep pits at a purpose built demolition site at the Bulboaca Training Area, in the Anenii Noi district of Moldova. The pits are dug about four meters deep as a safety measure to contain the explosions. (OSCE/Maurice Dunand)
    Photo details
  • The air bombs are disposed of using special thermal devices to split the bomb casing and burn off the explosives. Instruction in this destruction method was provided by John Paul Grimsley, an OSCE expert on explosive ordnance disposal. (OSCE/Liubomir Ţurcanu)
    Photo details
  • Grimsley gives practical on-site training on safe disposal operations. The OSCE-supported capacity building projects will also help any future national and international disposal projects of a similar nature. (OSCE/Liubomir Ţurcanu)
    Photo details
  • Kenneth Pickles (r), Politico-Military Officer at the OSCE Mission to Moldova, and Major Andrei Camerzan, Moldovan Army Chief of Arms and Ammunition Section, closely observe every stage of the disposal operations. (OSCE/Liubomir Ţurcanu)
    Photo details
  • The thermal shock induced deflagrator and low temperature thermite devices are safely positioned on top of the bomb, now ready for disposal. (OSCE/Liubomir Ţurcanu)
    Photo details
  • The OSCE Mission members and Moldovan army engineers observe the bomb-burning process from a bunker overlooking the site. (OSCE/Liubomir Ţurcanu)
    Photo details
The destruction of surplus ammunition is crucial for non-proliferation, regional stability, and the safety of civilians. The OSCE Mission to Moldova has been working with the Moldovan Ministry of Defence on ammunition disposal projects since 2007. The disposal of air bombs in July 2011 was the latest in a series of projects.

The disposal operations are part of the Mission’s efforts on arms control and disarmament, which also aim to promote military transparency and increase trust between the parties to the Transdniestrian conflict.