Massive Explosion Reported at KNDS Ammunition Plant Near Rome

A massive explosion occurred at an ammunition manufacturing plant in Colleferro, in the province of Rome. A fire had broken out at the facility shortly before the explosion.

This was reported by Corriere della Sera.

The plant is owned by KNDS Ammo Italy (formerly known as Simmel Difesa) and is part of the pan-European defense conglomerate KNDS.

The facility specializes in the production of ammunition.

The explosion was heard in neighboring towns. Firefighters are on the scene.

According to preliminary reports, there are no casualties or missing persons. Rescue workers are also inspecting buildings in the surrounding area for possible damage.

It is currently known that the fire broke out in the gunpowder compression department. The fire may have started in a compactor — a machine used to compress gunpowder.

High temperatures and strong winds contributed to the spread of the fire.

Due to the intense fire, rescue workers are not yet able to safely conduct a full inspection of the plant’s premises.

The plant in Colleferro opened in 1912. Today, KNDS Ammo Italy manufactures medium- and large-caliber ammunition for land and naval forces, as well as solid propellant for aviation systems.

Due to the incident, traffic on nearby streets has been restricted. The exact causes of the fire and subsequent explosion are currently being investigated.

Earlier this year in France, unknown individuals set fire to power lines near the MBDA and KNDS plants.