A massive 250kg aerial bomb dating back to the Second World War has been uncovered at a construction site linked to the upcoming Terminal 5 development at Changi Airport. The discovery was made in the early hours of March 31, raising immediate safety concerns due to the nature of the unexploded wartime relic.
Authorities were alerted at approximately 4:55am after workers encountered the object along Tanah Merah Coast Road, an area currently undergoing extensive development as part of Singapore’s long-term aviation expansion plans. The site falls within the broader Changi East project, which is set to significantly boost passenger capacity and reinforce Singapore’s status as a global air travel hub.
Initial assessments confirmed that the bomb could not be safely transported, prompting authorities to prepare for an on-site disposal operation instead.
Controlled Explosion Planned in Early Morning Hours
The Singapore Armed Forces’ Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit will take the lead in neutralising the device. According to officials, the controlled detonation is scheduled to take place between 2:30am and 4:30am on April 2, during hours when public movement is minimal.
The operation will be carried out entirely within the construction zone, ensuring that surrounding public areas remain unaffected. However, residents and individuals in nearby locations have been advised that loud explosive sounds may be heard during the process. Authorities have emphasised that such noise is expected and should not cause alarm.
The Singapore Police Force stated that comprehensive safety measures are being implemented in coordination with multiple agencies. These include the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, Changi Airport Group, the Singapore Armed Forces, and the Singapore Civil Defence Force.
WWII Relics Still Surface During Major Developments
Discoveries of unexploded wartime ordnance are not uncommon in Singapore, particularly in areas undergoing deep excavation works. During World War II, the island was heavily bombed, and remnants of that period occasionally resurface decades later.
Such incidents highlight the importance of strict construction safety protocols and the role of specialised military units trained to handle hazardous explosives. While the presence of a 250kg bomb may sound alarming, experts have reassured that modern disposal techniques are highly controlled and designed to minimise risk.
For the public, the key takeaway remains simple: there is no immediate danger, and operations are being conducted with the highest level of precaution. Singapore’s track record in handling such discoveries has consistently demonstrated a strong emphasis on safety, coordination, and efficiency.
As the nation continues to expand its infrastructure, particularly with large-scale projects like Changi Terminal 5, occasional encounters with historical remnants serve as a reminder of the island’s wartime past—and the careful planning required to build its future.