Pueblo crews began destroying 4.2-inch mortar rounds in the main plant using an improved technology Dec. 1.

“We have reached the last piece in the puzzle,” said Walton Levi, site project manager, Pueblo Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant, known as PCAPP. “I appreciate all the help and support from our PCAPP workforce as we make our way to the finish line.”

Improved Cavity Access Machines, or ICAMs, were designed to accommodate 4.2-inch mortar round processing in the main plant. The new design is based on previous Cavity Access Machine technology used to complete the 155mm and 105mm destruction campaigns. Levi said the improved design provides a safer environment and enhances the capability, reliability and maintainability of the plant.

“A lot of hard work went into the fabrication, installation and systemization to get the ICAMs up and running,” said Todd Ailes, project manager, PCAPP. “It is due to the diligence of our workforce that we’re on track to complete the chemical weapons destruction mission.”

This is the second phase of the third and final campaign to eliminate the chemical weapons stockpile at the U.S. Army Pueblo Chemical Depot. The first phase of the 4.2-inch mortar round campaign began Feb. 19 with the destruction of the first round in the Static Detonation Chamber complex. The program is targeting completion of the destruction of the remaining stockpile by the Chemical Weapons Convention treaty commitment of Sept. 30, 2023. U.S. Public Law mandates stockpile destruction by Dec. 31, 2023.