A major explosion occurred at an ammunition storage facility in eastern Bohemia on Monday morning, leaving one worker with life-threatening injuries and prompting a large-scale emergency response, according to Czech media.
The blast at the Poličské strojírny site – part of the STV Group’s defence manufacturing complex – was reported at 8:54 am local time, with shockwaves felt several kilometres away. Eleven firefighting units, including armoured tankers, were deployed under a Level 3 emergency alert due to the presence of TNT and other explosives.
Police established a safety perimeter, closing nearby roads, while additional specialist units mobilised from neighbouring regions. The severely injured victim was airlifted to Olomouc University Hospital.
Authorities initially attributed the incident to a “technical fault,” ruling out immediate signs of foul play. The facility’s operator, which produces large-calibre ammunition and military vehicle components, scheduled a press briefing for Tuesday.
As a major arms supplier to Ukraine, Czechia has significantly expanded defence production. The incident highlights ongoing risks in munitions storage and transport and persistent security challenges for Eastern European defence industries.
Police and military explosives experts continue to secure the site, with updates expected later on Tuesday.
