UXO Clearance – Protecting People and Places Post-Conflict

Unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance has become a vital part of demining and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD). From its origins in post-conflict recovery to today’s technology, UXO clearance is key to safety, development, and environmental and economic risk reduction in affected areas. This article explores UXO clearance history, technology, and notable events.

What is UXO Clearance?

UXO clearance is the process of finding, removing, and safely disposing of unexploded ordnance, such as bombs, grenades, shells, landmines, and other munitions that failed to explode on impact. These explosive remnants of war (ERW) threaten human life, infrastructure, and the environment. Post-conflict zones, construction sites, and areas of previous military activity are among the environments that may require UXO clearance.

The History of UXO Clearance

UXO clearance history goes back to after World War I when unexploded shells littered the battlefields of Europe. World War II further exacerbated the problem, leaving vast areas contaminated with unexploded munitions.

Early Efforts in UXO Removal

In the early 20th century, UXO clearance was basic, manual and visual. Soldiers and local civilians did clearance with limited equipment and expertise, and accidents and fatalities were common.

The setting up of formal explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) units in World War II was a game changer. Authorities tasked these units with removing live munitions from urban areas and battlefields. The lessons learned from this period formed the basis for modern UXO clearance.

Post-War UXO Clearance

Post WWII Europe needed extensive UXO clearance due to the sheer volume of unexploded munitions. For example, Germany and the UK had decades of bomb clearance after the air raids. Some areas still find UXO today, it’s a long term problem.

In South East Asia, the Vietnam War left millions of cluster munitions and landmines. Countries like Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam still deal with the legacy of war, UXO clearance is part of their development and humanitarian agenda.

UXO Clearance Technology

Alford Conventional Munitions Disposal (CMD) Kit

Modern UXO clearance has seen significant improvements in technology, safety and efficiency. Here are some of the technologies and methods used in UXO clearance today.

1. Ground-penetrating radar (GPR)

GPR is a nonintrusive technology that uses electromagnetic waves to detect buried explosives. It’s good for complex terrain and is used in both military and civilian demining operations.

2. Magnetometry

Magnetometers detect ferrous materials, which is ideal for locating metal-based UXO. Advanced magnetometry systems can differentiate between UXO and harmless metal debris, reducing false positives and speeding up clearance.

3. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)

Operators use drones equipped with sensors and cameras to conduct aerial surveys of contaminated areas. UAVs are safer for initial assessments, especially in inaccessible or hazardous areas.

4. Robotics and Remote-Controlled Systems

Robotics is used in UXO clearance, especially in high-risk areas. Remote-controlled vehicles (RCVs) with cameras, robotic arms, and manipulators can safely handle and dispose of ordnance, minimising human exposure to danger.

5. Explosive Detection Dogs (EDDs)

Canines are still an important asset in UXO clearance. Their highly tuned sense of smell can accurately locate explosive materials, complementing technology.

6. Data-Driven Clearance Programs

Modern UXO clearance prioritises clearance using GIS mapping, predictive modelling, and big data. These tools help organisations to allocate resources and measure progress in heavily contaminated areas.

7.  UXO Disposal Tools

Safely locating and identifying UXO is only part of the clearance process. Operators must also effectively and efficiently neutralise targets in a controlled manner so they no longer pose a risk to life and infrastructure. Tried and trusted explosive UXO clearance tools, such as shaped charges and cutting charges, are used worldwide by military and commercial organisations.  

Notable UXO Clearance Operations

Unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Libya

Many UXO clearance operations have gained global attention.

1. Oranienburg, Germany

Oranienburg, a town near Berlin, was one of the most bombed areas of World War II. UXO clearance teams have removed hundreds of unexploded bombs, including large aerial bombs buried deep underground. These operations required extensive planning and advanced technology like magnetometry and controlled detonations.

2. Vietnam and the Vietnam War Legacy

Vietnam is a major focus for UXO clearance due to the extensive contamination from US bombing. Organisations like MAG (Mines Advisory Group) and the Halo Trust have been working to clear cluster munitions, reducing accidents and fatalities in rural areas.

3. Operation Safe Path in Laos

Laos is the most bombed country per capita in history. UXO clearance initiatives like Operation Safe Path, led by NGOs and local governments, are removing unexploded cluster bombs and empowering local communities through education and training.

4. Falkland Islands

The Falklands War left the islands with landmines and UXO. Decades of clearance ended in 2020 when the UK declared the Falkland Islands mine-free, a first in UXO clearance history.

5. Post-Conflict Clearance in Iraq and Syria

UXO clearance is crucial in Iraq and Syria, where ongoing conflicts have contaminated cities like Mosul and Raqqa. International organisations are working with local authorities to clear explosives so displaced populations can return and rebuild infrastructure.

UXO Clearance Challenges

Despite technology, UXO clearance is a complex and resource-intensive task. Some of the key challenges include:

Challenging Terrain: Urban, dense forest and underwater areas make detection and removal difficult.

Funding and Resources: UXO clearance is expensive and often relies on unpredictable international funding, especially during times of economic insecurity.

Safety Risks: Even with advanced technology, UXO clearance is dangerous and requires highly trained personnel.

Long-Term Contamination: UXO can remain hazardous for decades and requires sustained clearance.

Climate Change: Rising sea levels and erosion expose previously buried UXO, adding a new dimension to clearance.

The Future of UXO Clearance

As UXO clearance continues to evolve, integrating AI, machine learning, and autonomous robotics promises to revolutionise the field. Emerging technologies will enhance clearance operations’ speed, accuracy, and safety, enabling more efficient remediation of contaminated areas.

International collaboration and advocacy remain crucial. Organisations like the UN Mine Action Service (UNMAS) and the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD) drive global efforts to promote best practices and secure funding for UXO clearance initiatives.