Frogman Corps Detonate Mine at Anholt Offshore Wind Farm Site (Denmark)

In 2010, DONG Energy performed detailed geophysical surveys of the seabed in the wind farm area. In connection with the surveys, a few objects with magnetic signs, indicating that it might be old bombs, were located..

In connection with the surveys, a few objects with magnetic signs, indicating that it might be old bombs, were located. Further surveys confirmed the presumptions; the find turned out to be two old mines from World War II – each containing approx 400kg undetonated explosives.

One of the mines was situated close to the substation where the cables from the wind turbines will be connected, and the other mine was situated in the centre of the wind farm area. Both mines were visible on the seabed at a water depth of approx 16 metres.

DONG Energy reported the find to the authorities, and after a diving inspection, the mines were classified as high-risk mines. In such a situation, the Admiral Danish Fleet is responsible for removal of the mines and decided to send out the Frogman Corps to detonate the mines.

[mappress]

Offshore WIND staff, January 05, 2012; Image: dongenergy