Fire causes major explosion at ammunition factory near Rome

A fire erupted at an ammunition and explosives factory in Colleferro, approximately 50 kilometers southeast of Rome, on Thursday, resulting in a significant explosion and a thick column of black smoke. Fortunately, initial reports indicate no casualties or injuries.

The blaze reportedly began in the gunpowder pressing department, leading to a violent detonation that resonated across several neighboring municipalities. Videos shared after the incident show a small fire rapidly escalating into a major explosion.

Rescue teams confirmed the incident was confined to a limited section of the production and storage facility. Workers and nearby residents were unharmed, according to Italian media. Firefighters and security personnel cordoned off the area to combat the flames, a task complicated by the intensity of the fire and the hazardous nature of the explosive materials.

The industrial complex, spanning nearly 100 hectares, was historically part of the Italian defense company Simmel Difesa and is now owned by the Franco-German group KNDS Ammo Italy. The plant specializes in manufacturing medium and large-caliber ammunition for land and naval defense systems, as well as explosive components and solid propellants for aerospace applications.