The use of GPS/GNSS technology in the clearance of land mines from World War II

12345678

Septentrio, a Belgian company, is a leading manufacturer of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receivers, known for their high accuracy and reliability.

Throughout its long history, the French Navy has played an important role not only in naval warfare but also in peacetime missions. For example, a Septentrio GNSS receiver was used to help clear World War II mines from Magouëro Beach in Prusignac, Brittany, France. This application of the technology demonstrates how effectively the French Navy can carry out mine clearance with the aid of modern technology.

Septentrio's GNSS receivers are renowned for their outstanding performance, high level of safety and resilience in challenging environments. The During the operation on Magouëro Beach in Ploucinék, Brittany, French Navy bomb disposal experts used Septentrio's smart antennas to carry out an initial site survey, recording the location of nearly 300 objects.

12345678

They first identified objects such as unexploded shells and then either removed them immediately or marked their location for later removal. Jean-Charles Gérard, the operation's commander, was pleased with the work accomplished and explained their workflow: first, a metal detector is used to probe the area in question, and when an object is found, a decision is made as to whether or not it should be destroyed, and, if so, it is buried in a hole in the beach and detonated.

12345678

As coastal erosion gradually changes the structure of the beach, new objects and shells will continue to be found. The beach is now ready for the summer. This demonstrates the French Navy's endeavour and commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens and the protection of the environment.