Explosion at Rheinmetall Munitions Factory in Murcia Leaves Six Workers Injured

On January 29, 2025, a significant explosion occurred at the Rheinmetall Expal Munitions facility in Murcia, Spain, resulting in injuries to six workers and sparking widespread concern about the safety of the plant.

Incident Details

The blast took place at 4:20 PM local time at the Rheinmetall Expal Munitions factory, a subsidiary of the German defense company Rheinmetall. The explosion triggered two large fires that spread across areas of 1,000 and 2,000 square meters near the factory. Local emergency services quickly responded to the incident and managed to extinguish the fires.

Injuries and Medical Response

Six workers, aged between 30 and 52, were injured in the explosion. Five of the workers were hospitalized with various injuries, including burns, smoke inhalation, head trauma, and multiple other injuries. One of the workers, aged 41, received treatment at the scene and did not require hospitalization. The severity of the injuries varies, with one worker reported to be in serious condition.

Previous Incidents

This incident is not the first to affect the Rheinmetall Expal Munitions facility. In January 2024, a solvent-related explosion resulted in two workers suffering severe burns. These recurring incidents have raised concerns about the safety and operational practices at the plant.

Facility and Operations

The Rheinmetall Expal Munitions facility, which has its roots dating back to the 18th century, is a key producer of artillery, mortar, and medium-caliber ammunition. It serves as a crucial supplier to NATO armed forces and other international clients, operating in both Spain and the USA. Rheinmetall acquired Expal Propellant Systems in August 2023, further expanding its capabilities.

Investigation and Response

The Labor Health Institute (ISSL) has been tasked with investigating the cause of the explosion. Local authorities and the company are working together to determine the root cause of the incident and to implement measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

Broader Context

Rheinmetall has been a significant player in the global defense industry, particularly in the context of the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia. The company has formed a joint venture with the Ukrainian state-owned defense company Ukroboronprom to enable local production of military equipment, including ammunition and Lynx armored personnel carriers. Rheinmetall also provides various military supplies to Ukraine, such as 155mm artillery rounds and Leopard 1 tanks.

Community Reaction

The incident has prompted concerns from local officials and community leaders. Javier Sánchez Serna, coordinator of Podemos Región de Murcia, has expressed concerns about the facility’s operations and the need for enhanced safety measures.

As the investigation unfolds, the community remains vigilant, hoping for a thorough examination of the incident and measures to ensure the safety of the workers at the Rheinmetall Expal Munitions facility.