Explosive Ordnance Disposal

We are on standby around the clock to neutralise ammunition and explosives, both in Belgium and abroad, on land and at sea. In cases of terrorism and serious organised crime, we support the federal and local governments. With precision and courage, we disable improvised explosive devices – from parcel bombs to car bombs – and ensure a safe environment.

Our headquarters are in Oud-Heverlee, but we also have specialised teams of diver-deminers in Zeebrugge and a dismantling facilityin Poelkapelle. During foreign assignments, we contribute to the protection of Belgian military missions. As part of humanitarian aid, we help train local personnel and clear mined zones.

During the First and Second World Wars, thousands of tons of ammunition were dropped in our region. Almost every day, farmers and other workers still discover remnants that may explode and have deadly consequences. Homemade and abandoned explosives remain a threat, as demonstrated by attacks worldwide and in our own country. DOVO remains on standby around the clock to disarm explosives and neutralise suspicious packages – quickly, effectively, and often against the clock.

We receive an average of ten calls a day, seven days a week. These calls usually concern historical ammunition from the two world wars. Each year, DOVO defuses more than two hundred tons of ammunition on average.

Our constant readiness saves lives and prevents destruction – from deadly blasts to damaged infrastructure. In this way, we contribute to public safety, enhance national counterterrorism readiness and even support economic activities such as agriculture.