Underwater UXO/DMM Disposal Using High Pressure Waterjet Technology ($3,500,000)
Native Hawaiian Veterans will partner with Gradient Technology to demonstrate the demilitarization of munitions that have been recovered from Ordnance Reef off the coast of Oahu.
Native Hawaiian Veterans will partner with Gradient Technology to remove explosive contents from undersea unexploded ordnance (UXO) and discarded military munitions (DMM), utilizing high pressure waterjet munitions disposal systems technology that has been used successfully to dispose of more than 2 million high-explosive projectiles and bombs without mishap. The project partners will demonstrate the demilitarization of munitions that been recovered from Ordnance Reef off the coast of Oahu.
Gradient Technology’s system will be adapted for open ocean use on ship or barge to demilitarize UXO and DMM by capturing and removing the toxic explosive contents for proper disposal. Future concepts of this technology include its use underwater by trained divers and by remotely piloted vehicles to remove explosive contents from bombs and munitions embedded in reefs and to allow the safe washout and retrieval of the toxic payloads. The system would remove all toxic contents from UXO and DMM prior to being cut into pieces and removed from sensitive aquatic ecosystems.
Recipient: Native Hawaiian Veterans
3375 Koapaka Street, Suite B
Honolulu, HI 96819
Why this is a good use of taxpayer dollars: The disposal of chemical and conventional munitions off the coast of Oahu will not only serve as a prototype for future ocean assessments, mitigation, and cleanup efforts but will also help address the environmental and public safety concerns of our communities.
