Strait of Messina, record clearance: nine war devices neutralized by COMSUBIN divers

The waters of the Strait of Messina have once again required the intervention of the Divers of the Underwater Operations Group (GOS) of the Navy Divers and Raiders Command (COMSUBIN), called to deal with one of the most complex underwater clearance operations of recent years. Detached from the SDAI (Demining and Defense Anti-Insidious Means) Nucleus in Augusta, the military operated in particularly difficult environmental conditions to neutralize nine explosive devices dating back to the Second World War.

The discovery was made during preventive investigations conducted by a specialized company, as part of the Bolano-Annunziata infrastructure project: a major energy supply project that involves the laying of high-capacity underwater cables between Messina and Reggio Calabria. The areas affected by the operations were located between Bolano, Acciarello (RC) and along the Messina coast.

The discovery was promptly reported to the competent authorities, and a detailed operational plan was drawn up by order of the Prefectures of Messina and Reggio Calabria to secure the area. The devices identified, at depths of between 35 and 40 meters, turned out to be four 500-pound aerial bombs, four 250-pound bombs and a large-caliber projectile: war remnants that, even after decades, still represent a concrete risk.

Highly complex operation: the commitment of the Divers

The operations, which began on February 26 and ended on April 10, required highly specialized skills, cutting-edge technical equipment and a constant ability to adapt on the part of the diving personnel. There was no shortage of difficulties: strong sea currents, reduced visibility, irregular seabeds and often adverse weather conditions made each dive a challenge. Making the intervention even more critical was the nature of the devices, still armed with the fuses inserted. This forced the divers to operate with extreme caution, following rigorous procedures for removal, safe towing and subsequent controlled destruction in a safe area.

Despite the complexity of the operation, the emergency management represented a virtuous example of inter-institutional coordination. Each phase was planned in detail and involved the personnel of the Port Authorities and the Naval Department of the Guardia di Finanza of Messina and Reggio Calabria. The work carried out in communication with local communities was also fundamental: timely updates, transparent information and a proactive approach to security made it possible to avoid alarmism, while at the same time guaranteeing the protection of the population.

Marine safety, development and protection

The success of the operation is not only measured by the removal of the devices, but also by the future benefits it will bring to the entire Strait area. The reclamation of the seabed represents a crucial step for the construction of the Bolano-Annunziata power line, an infrastructure that will bring up to 2,000 MW of power between Sicily and the Continent. This new connection, once operational, will be crucial to strengthening the electricity grid of the South, increasing the security of local energy systems and facilitating the integration of renewable sources, contributing to the ecological transition.

Furthermore, the elimination of war remnants in the Strait's seabed will improve safety for all maritime activities in the area: from commercial navigation to fishing, to underwater tourism. The return to full usability of the waters is an important opportunity for the economic and environmental relaunch of the territory.

The operations conducted by the COMSUBIN Divers therefore represent a concrete testimony of the daily commitment of the Navy  in the defense and protection of the country, both in times of peace and in emergency situations. Interventions such as this highlight the professionalism, courage and operational rigor of a highly specialized sector, often far from the spotlight but crucial for collective security.

As the personnel involved have emphasized, each device neutralized is one less threat for the present and one more guarantee for the future. The waters of the Strait, once the scene of conflicts, are now transformed into a symbol of cooperation, security and development.

Source: https://www.marina.difesa.it/media-cultura/Notiziario-online/Pagine/20250416-palombari-comsubin-bonificano-ordigni-messina.aspx