On Wednesday the 16th of September COM EUFOR Major General Johann Luif visited an ammunition disposal site in Glamoc. During this visit he witnessed the destruction of different types of weapon, ranging from aircraft bombs to small arms ammunition. The destruction of the ammunition was carried out by an Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina (AFBiH) team together with civilian contractors. This destruction is part of a comprehensive Master Plan of AFBiH to manage their AWE stockpiles, including the destruction of unsafe ammunition within Bosnia and Herzegovina. Careful coordination between the international agencies supporting AFBiH's effort is a critical element of success. The coordination of activities among several of these partners at Glamoc destruction range is telling of the success of this complex project.
Mentoring and advice
EUFOR contributed to the destruction of this ammunition by providing subject matter experts who advised the AFBiH on the transport of the ammunition to the destruction site. They also made recommendations on the schedule for the destruction of the weapons, based on their risk category.
Destroying surplus ammunition
EUFOR has a long term commitment to supporting the AFBiH as they both identify and destroy stocks of surplus ammunition throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. EUFOR provides support in the areas of planning, personnel and logistics, assisting the AFBiH as they continue to make progress.
COM EUFOR commented,
‘The AFBiH capacity to store and dispose of weapons has improved. The destruction of these weapons today was an impressive display. EUFOR will continue to be involved in this task, which is important for the safety of everyone within Bosnia and Herzegovnia’