Conventional Munitions Demilitarization

The Conventional Munitions Demilitarization Program is designed to manage the demilitarization and disposal of conventional ammunition and missiles that are unserviceable, obsolete, or excess. This initiative aligns with Department of Defense directives and instructions. It utilizes both open burning/open detonation processes and closed disposal technologies, emphasizing resource recovery and recycling. The program provides technical support, services, and logistics for demilitarization projects at various Army depots and facilities, as well as through commercial contracts.

The program's objectives focus on the safe and efficient reduction of munitions stockpiles across all military services. For Fiscal Year 2025, plans include processing significant quantities of conventional ammunition and missile components both within the Continental United States (CONUS) and Outside the Continental United States (OCONUS). CONUS operations are conducted by a combination of government-operated facilities and commercial contractors, while OCONUS operations involve facilities in Japan and contractors in the European Union.

A key goal is to address munitions with significant tonnage such as depleted uranium munitions, cluster bombs, anti-personnel landmines, and various missiles. The program aims to mitigate safety and environmental risks associated with aging stockpiles by ensuring proper storage management and reducing emergency demilitarization needs. It also supports international operations in the European and Pacific theaters to enhance global security measures.

Additionally, the program emphasizes improving demilitarization processes through technological advancements. This includes enhancing transportation logistics to relocate munitions to appropriate sites for disposal. By reducing inventory levels within relevant accounts, the program seeks to improve mission readiness and create storage space for new munitions production.