A major explosion occurred at a munitions factory in Colleferro, Italy, about 40 kilometers southeast of Rome, on Thursday. The blast was heard many kilometers away in other towns, according to reports.
The explosion took place at the former Simmel Difesa plant, now operated by KNDS Ammo Italy, a subsidiary of the Franco-German defense group KNDS, as reported by Italian news agency Ansa.
Italian authorities, including the Carabinieri, reported that the explosion was preceded by a fire at the site. Firefighters and police were engaged in 'complex operations' at the factory, according to a statement from the Carabinieri.
The Italian news agency AGI reported that the fire allowed employees on site to take refuge in designated safety areas. Reports indicate that 20 employees were in the factory, and none have been reported missing.
The cause of the incident is not yet fully clarified, according to Corriere della Sera. The newspaper reported that the fire started at a compaction press for explosive powder, likely in the powder pressing department, where high temperatures and wind spread the blaze. The Italian prosecutor's office has initiated an investigation, including whether arson may have occurred. However, Ansa, citing investigative sources, reported that the cause was initially believed to be an accident and not arson or sabotage.
Lazio Region President Francesco Rocca stated that an explosion occurred following a fire at the facility. Rescue sources said the fire and explosion were confined to one section of the plant.
The situation is under control.
Mayor Calamita urged people to avoid spreading untrue information, specifically referencing a 2007 incident at the plant. A major explosion at the same facility in October 2007 killed one worker and injured 13 others.
The plant produces medium- and large-caliber munitions for land and naval defense, as well as solid propellants for aerospace launch vehicles, according to Ansa. KNDS is listed as a supplier for European Defence Agency 155-mm ammunition framework deals signed in 2023.
No injuries or casualties have been reported, although some sources did not provide specifics regarding deaths or injuries. Sky TG24 also reported that the situation is under control.
