Aberdeen Proving Ground

Depleted Uranium Munitions Test Facilities

Depleted Uranium Containment Facilities

The Superbox

This superbox is where DU munitions are test fired. At one time, Aberdeen tested DU munitions on an open-air range. Over time, an enclosure was built to preclude the release of DU into the air. This superbox has a highspeed door which closes immediately after the fired munition passes through it, to further minimize the amount of DU released to the open air.

From Aberdeens Web Page:
Depleted uranium (DU) is used by the Department of Defense (DOD) in the development of major weapon systems because of its high density and superior mechanical properties, and because it is relatively abundant and cost effective. However, because it is low level radioactive and a toxic heavy metal, it has the potential to cause concern for the environment and safety of personal. (Emphasis added by editor) U.S. Army Aberdeen Test Center, (ATC) personnel are experienced in handling DU before, during, and after testing to include complete decontamination and disposal procedures.

SUPERBOX FACILITY CAPABILITIES:

Air filtration system (99.97% efficiency)
100 lb TNT blast equivalency containment of in-vessel detonations
Washdown/asset protection (water-foam)
High-speed flight input door (56 millisecond closure) to seal vessel
Air Quality monitoring (real-time)
Complete-system distributive control (strain, pressure, temperature)

These gentlemen seem to have been properly trained in handling DU munitions, something the DOD states is excessive when speaking of soldiers. The one in the white suit appears to be firing a .50 caliber munition while the two in the green suits are just loading munitions, yet they have taken significant precautions to include gloves..

Various munitions tested by Aberdeen.

Small Arms

Larger Sabots