Bomb Hunters Search UK Waters for Unexploded Munitions
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(BBC) The UK seabed harbors hundreds of thousands of unexploded bombs, posing a threat to maritime activities. Ordtek, led by Lee Gooderham, maps and addresses these munitions, revealing both reported and unknown dangers. Unexploded ordnance (UXO) is especially perilous for fishing vessels. Ordtek serves clients in offshore and renewables, navigating high-risk areas.
The process involves surveys, geophysical tools, and remotely-operated underwater vehicles, with clearance costs reaching hundreds of thousands of pounds. The German government estimates it would take 300 years to clear WWII munitions. Despite the challenges, some fishermen recall times when they were paid for reporting and disposing of UXO.