The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team of the Diving Unit of the Canary Islands Naval Command (EDE) traveled to the island of La Graciosa aboard the Maritime Action Vessel (BAM) "Meteoro" in order to neutralize an explosive device located underwater to the west of the island at an approximate depth of 15 meters.
The initial location of the device was made by a local diver, who informed the Naval Assistant of Lanzarote, from which the procedures established for the activation of the unit were followed. Prior to the start of the deployment, it was linked with the Naval Assistant to coordinate all logistical needs and communication with local authorities for control in the vicinity of the coast.
After locating and recognizing the device, it was found to be a 210 mm "howitzer", called GRANADA ROMPEDORA MOD 1916, with a length of 67 cm and an amount of 11.5 kg of explosive, with a percussion activation fuse, which was neutralized in a controlled manner and all its remains were collected.
The deployment aboard the "Meteoro" allowed the team sufficient flexibility to establish a search field with its boats, and provide adequate safety at sea to maintain a security perimeter according to the action.
The Navy's Diving Units have, among others, the mission of locating, recognizing, neutralizing or deactivating explosive devices underwater, on beaches and coasts. For this they have specialist personnel in explosive ordnance disposal (EOD).
