Harnessing Cutting-Edge Technology for Effective UXO Risk Mitigation

At Brimstone UXO, we are dedicated to advancing UXO risk mitigation through continuous innovation and the strategic use of cutting-edge technology. By integrating artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and state-of-the-art surveying solutions, we help clients detect and manage UXO threats with greater accuracy, efficiency, and safety.

Our technology-driven approach enables us to deliver faster, more precise, and cost-effective UXO solutions across the UK and internationally, supporting sectors such as construction, infrastructure development, and environmental projects.

Mitigating UXO risks from above with UAV surveys

Traditional UXO detection methods often involve ground disturbance, which can be time-consuming and labour-intensive. However, with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) – commonly known as drones – non-intrusive aerial surveying is transforming UXO risk mitigation.

At Brimstone UXO, we use UAVs fitted with Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging), Photogrammetry, and Magnetometry sensors to deliver accurate and efficient UXO surveys.

Lidar technology generates precise 3D models and detailed topographic maps, allowing us to identify subtle surface changes that may indicate buried UXO. Photogrammetry captures high-resolution imagery, enabling us to build accurate geospatial models and enhance terrain analysis. Our magnetometry sensors detect ferrous materials beneath the surface, helping to pinpoint potential UXO threats.

One of the key advantages of drone surveying is its efficiency. UAVs can cover large areas significantly faster than traditional ground-based methods, reducing project timelines. Their ability to access remote or challenging locations also makes them ideal for surveying difficult terrain or sites with limited accessibility. Importantly, drone surveying minimises environmental impact by avoiding unnecessary ground disturbance.

Brimstone UXO was the first company in the UK to market UAVs for UXO surveying. Since then, we have continued to refine and enhance our drone technology, helping clients reduce costs and improve project efficiency with safe, reliable, and accurate UXO detection.

Intrusive UXO detection with advanced survey rigs

While drone surveys are ideal for large-scale terrain assessments, some sites require intrusive UXO surveys to detect deeper threats. For these projects, we deploy our fleet of state-of-the-art Cone Penetration Testing (CPT) rigs.

Our CPT rigs – named Honey Badger, Red Fox, and Handsome – pay tribute to Brimstone call signs and former Army Captains who served with our founder in Afghanistan. This connection reflects our company’s military heritage and expertise in UXO risk management.

Mounted on crawler undercarriages, the rigs are designed to traverse rough or uneven terrain. Once in position, they use hydraulic pressure to drive a hardened metal cone into the ground. The cone is equipped with magnetometers, which detect ferrous materials and identify magnetic anomalies caused by buried UXO.

Our CPT rigs are highly effective for identifying German air-dropped bombs from World War II, which were commonly manufactured from ferrous materials such as iron. With the ability to penetrate to depths of up to 25 metres, the rigs deliver detailed 3D magnetic signature maps, providing comprehensive subsurface data. This level of precision helps us accurately identify and classify potential UXO hazards, reducing false positives and ensuring thorough risk mitigation.

AI-powered UXO detection with MOSAIC

At Brimstone UXO, we are harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance UXO detection. Our proprietary AI-driven software, MOSAIC, is transforming the speed and accuracy of data analysis.

MOSAIC processes over 200 data points per second, providing real-time insights into potential UXO locations. This capability significantly reduces the time required for data processing, which traditionally could take days or even weeks. By accelerating this process, MOSAIC enables faster decision-making and more efficient project delivery.

The software also uses deep learning models to distinguish between UXO and non-UXO objects, improving accuracy and reducing false positives. As MOSAIC continues to learn from new data, its detection capabilities become increasingly refined, making it a powerful tool for UXO risk management.

Driving innovation for a safer future

At Brimstone UXO, our mission is clear: to safeguard lives and support safe development by delivering innovative UXO risk mitigation solutions. Whether through drone surveying, CPT rig deployment, or AI-powered detection, we offer precise, efficient, and cost-effective services tailored to each project’s unique needs.

If you require UXO risk assessment, surveying, or clearance, contact our commercial team. We are ready to support your project with safe, reliable, and industry-leading UXO solutions.

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