A project which addressed security issues at the Ammunition and Explosives Storage Facilities at Fort Mosta has been implemented, the Home Affairs Ministry said in a statement. Being the government’s sole central Ammunition and Explosive Depot, and the only entity with an EOD/IED capability, the implementation of this project was deemed essential in reinforcing the critical infrastructure at Fort Mosta. Through this, security measures at Fort Mosta Ammo Depot have been enhanced significantly.

This investment, aimed to restore the dilapidated state of the facility’s perimeter fence and the lack of lighting along its span, was deemed a priority for the Armed Forces of Malta to enhance national security. The existing chain link perimeter fence along the Depot’s Upper and Lower footprints was replaced with a high-density mesh perimeter fence complete with adequate lighting and surveillance facilities.

Present at the inauguration ceremony held at Fort Mosta were Parliamentary Secretary for European Funds Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, Minister for Home Affairs, National Security, and Law Enforcement Byron Camilleri, the Commander and Deputy Commander of the Armed Forces of Malta, the Managing Director of General Maintenance Ltd, as well as AFM officers and other ranks who were also involved in this project.

Commander of the Armed Forces of Malta, Brigadier Jeffrey Curmi, introduced the Ammunition and Explosives Squadron within the Armed Forces of Malta, which is stationed at Fort Mosta. He explained the various roles of the squadron, including safe and secure storage of explosives, explosive accessories, ammunition, as well as explosive precursors – both for military and commercial use. Brigadier Curmi emphasised the importance of safe and secure storage of such sensitive items in relation to national security and explained how the need was felt to invest in advanced security systems in order to assist AFM personnel to provide security of the highest level.

Parliamentary Secretary for European Funds Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi explained that the Armed Forces of Malta benefited from European funds to further enhance the safety, security, and integrity of the facility. He went on to say that this project forms part of a series of projects which have already been completed and others that are yet to be completed. He also said that the government’s holistic approach shows genuine interest in ensuring the security and well-being of its people.

Minister for Home Affairs, National Security and Law Enforcement Byron Camilleri welcomed the investment and upgrade of Fort Mosta while stating that this site is an essential part of the country’s national security strategy. Minister Camilleri also mentioned that even in the midst of a pandemic, the government has continued to invest in the Armed Forces of Malta, especially in its workforce, through the signing of the first ever sectoral agreement.

This project has reconfirmed that the Armed Forces of Malta is truly committed to safeguarding all sensitive equipment and materials stored in its facilities under the highest security measures, the ministry said.