Over 10,000 WW2 artillery shells were found in the Baltic Sea

04.06.2010 WW2 German barge with over 10,000 artillery shells was found in close proximity to Baltiysk; preparation for demining and utilization of explosive objects is in progress, reported RIA Novosti citing Maksim Vladimirov, deputy director of EMERCOM Fire Department.

"After survey of the sunken German barge laying on the seabed at the depth 17-20 meters 1.5 km off the shore, it was acknowledged that the ship had explosives on board. According to preliminary information, there are over 10,000 artillery shells", said the interviewee.

According to Vladimirov, works will start somewhat June 15 and most probably will last three years.

Initially, it is planned to demine the top deck, since there is plenty of shells; then inside rooms will be examined and demined, use of unmanned submersibles is also planned. After that EMERCOM divers will scan adjacent seabed by mine detectors.

Found explosive objects will be delivered ashore and handed over to Kaliningrad regional administration for further mine firing, said the EMERCOM official.

According to him, similar works were carried out last year in Pionersky, Kaliningrad region. However, that was a small barge with only 117 artillery shells.

All works in Baltiysk will be conducted by divers of Northwest branch, Emergency Salvage Service (GOSAKVASPAS). The branch is fully equipped with all needed facilities.

"All divers are excellently skilled and had trained in international demining centers; they all have a great experience", assured the interviewee.