Overview of UXO Neutralisation Equipment
Introduction
This page provides a high-level overview of the UXO neutralisation equipment offered by Richmond Defence Systems. These tools support trained personnel who manage historical unexploded ordnance, including items from the Second World War that are often discovered on coastlines, construction sites, former military sites, and places that may have been involved in conflicts in the past.
The descriptions focus on roles and contexts and do not cover internal mechanisms or operational procedures. The aim is to support procurement teams and other stakeholders who require a clear understanding of the equipment available for managing legacy ordnance.
High‑Level Summary of the Neutralisation Product Range
Richmond Defence Systems provides several categories of UXO neutralisation tools that support the management of historical ordnance, particularly items affected by age, corrosion or environmental exposure. Each category addresses a different aspect of fuze stabilisation, removal or interruption, and the individual product pages provide full details for each tool.
Mechanical fuze‑removal tools
This category includes equipment designed to assist with the controlled removal of threaded fuzes from historical munitions, including items that may be seized or corroded. These tools support both land‑based and maritime UXO tasks and are used when a mechanical approach is appropriate.
Products in this category include the Multi‑Role Rocket Wrench (below left) and the Fuze Extractor (below right).
Cryogenic stabilisation equipment
Cryogenic systems provide a controlled method for stabilising certain mechanisms within historical ordnance. They are used when a non‑destructive, temperature‑based approach is required and are designed for autonomous field deployment.
This category includes the Freeze Neutralising Kit.
Below left: FNK fitted to the tail fuze of UXO. Below right: The FNK RAIK unit.
Agent‑based neutralisation tools
These tools support the introduction of appropriate neutralising agents into fuze mechanisms to prevent further functioning. They are used in both UXO and IED contexts and provide a non‑intrusive option for managing sensitive items.
This category includes the Fuze Neutralising Equipment.
Clock‑stopping and mechanism‑interruption devices
These devices are designed to interrupt specific mechanical timing systems found in certain historical fuzes. They provide technicians with additional time to carry out disposal activities and are particularly relevant for older ordnance fitted with clockwork mechanisms.
This category includes the Electromagnetic Actuator (Clockstopper).
Responsible use
All equipment described in this overview is intended for trained and authorised personnel working within national policy and organisational procedures. This page is conceptual and does not describe internal mechanisms or operational methods.
Usage Guidance
If your organisation requires guidance on selecting suitable UXO neutralisation equipment, our team can provide clear, non technical support. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.
