Radford Army Ammunition Plant Explosion Update
**U.S. officials have confirmed that no injuries were reported following an explosion at the Radford Army Ammunition Plant in southwest Virginia on Friday, February 28. The explosion took place around 12:30 a.m. in the facility’s ammunition production area, prompting immediate response from safety teams. Although details about the explosion’s scale and specifics remain limited, officials reassured the public about safety measures in place at the facility.**
In a statement, the Radford Army Ammunition Plant highlighted the inherent risks involved in ammunition manufacturing. They emphasized that numerous safety protocols are strictly followed to minimize risks for operators. The incident serves as a testament to the effectiveness of these safety measures, underscoring the facility’s commitment to maintaining a secure working environment.
Located in Montgomery and Pulaski counties, the Radford Army Ammunition Plant (RFAAP) is a government-owned facility that encompasses two distinct areas. The main production unit lies between the City of Radford and the Town of Blacksburg, spanning 4,080 acres, while the New River Storage Unit is situated 12 miles away near Dublin, covering an additional 2,821 acres. Established as one of the first smokeless powder facilities under the National Defense program, the plant began construction on September 7, 1940, and became operational on April 5, 1941.
During its early years, RFAAP played a crucial role in supporting military efforts during World War II by producing a variety of chemical materials. Operations at both the main plant and New River Unit were suspended after the war, but the nitric acid production area resumed in 1949, focusing on ammonium nitrate. The facility underwent further modifications during the Korean War to accommodate military needs, resulting in a new area dedicated to the production of rocket and missile chemicals.
As the Vietnam War escalated, the demand for chemical production surged, leading to increased output at the plant. However, post-war, production levels dropped, and strict employee limits were imposed. Despite these challenges, plans for improvements were initiated to align the facility with evolving military requirements. In 1995, Alliant Techsystems (ATK) took over the operations, implementing modernization efforts that bolstered production in critical areas.
On July 1, 2012, BAE Systems assumed the role of operating contractor and has continued to oversee production activities at the plant, which remain active to this day. Additionally, the U.S. military is exploring advancements in 3D printing technology for explosive production, a move aimed at enhancing artillery ammunition capabilities.
