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Explosives tests off Flensburg: Frigate Karlsruhe under fire!
The Bundeswehr is planning tests on the former frigate “Karlsruhe” off Flensburg to research explosive devices by 2028.
Explosives tests off Flensburg: Frigate Karlsruhe under fire!
In the coming weeks, the northern German coast will be the scene of extensive test series on the former frigate “Karlsruhe”. The Bundeswehr has ambitious plans to use this decommissioned naval ship in the Baltic Sea for material testing that will last until 2028. Loud NDR Flensburger Schiffbau Gesellschaft (FSG) will carry out specific work on the “Karlsruhe”, which will lay the foundation for the upcoming tests.
The focus of these tests is to examine the effects of mines and explosive devices. Targeted detonations are carried out in the Baltic Sea in order to collect important data. Numerous sensors will be installed on the ship to record the reactions of the ship's hull to the explosions. This is done not only to examine the physical structures, but also to increase the safety of future naval vessels and their crews, such as Defense Network notes.
Testing and safety precautions
Extensive preparations and approvals are necessary to carry out the tests. Contact was made with the Schleswig-Holstein Ministry of the Environment to ensure that the planned explosions take place with the marine environment in mind. On October 9, 2024, an exemption will be granted that allows two planned blasting operations to be carried out by November 4, 2024 at the latest.
The use of modern technologies is particularly noteworthy: “Crash test dummies” with fine sensor technology are used to simulate the effect of explosions on human bodies. In addition, special surveying methods are used to precisely determine possible deformations of the ship. This is accompanied by extensive acoustic and visual monitoring measures as well as deterrence measures, which are crucial for protecting the underwater world.
Protective measures for the underwater world
An innovative double bubble curtain is used to dampen the pressure wave. This not only reduces the range of the waves, but also minimizes potential impact on the marine environment. Multiple vessels are on site to ensure the safety of wildlife during testing. The participation of the Federation for Nature Conservation (BfN) in these plans also shows the desire to protect the marine environment and at the same time to gain necessary knowledge for future ship projects.
All in all, there is an exciting chapter in the history of ships and testing in the Bay of Flensburg. With the subsequent series of tests, the “Karlsruhe” not only becomes an object of research, but also a key to improving the safety of modern naval ships.