Interconnect Malta has confirmed the successful removal of 117 explosive devices from the seabed along the route of the Second Malta–Sicily Interconnector, clearing the way for the next stage of offshore works before cable installation begins later this year.

The operation covered the 99-kilometre subsea corridor and followed extensive marine surveys that initially identified 707 magnetic anomalies. Further analysis narrowed these down to 393 objects requiring direct inspection and specialised offshore assessment.

Of those examined, 84 were found to be unexploded ordnance. Additional buried munitions discovered during the works brought the overall number of explosive items recovered to 117.

Most of the devices dated back to the Second World War and included artillery shells, hand grenades and Hedgehog anti-submarine mortars.

The challenging clearance operation was carried out by specialist teams using remotely operated vehicles and dedicated marine equipment while adhering to strict safety procedures. Interconnect Malta delivered the works in collaboration with Nexans, NextGeo and Sub Service S.r.l., with support from the Armed Forces of Malta.

With the seabed now cleared, the project is set to move into the marine cable installation phase.