Article Posted on : - Aug 28, 2012

An unrelated file photo.

JERUSALEM (AP): Israel Military Industries says it has developed a unique grenade that doesn't explode when hit by shrapnel, bullets or even if exposed to fire.

Moshe Elert, a senior official with the state-owned defence company, said on Monday the new mechanism could save soldiers' lives. He would not elaborate on how it works.

He said it was developed after two soldiers were killed in 2010 when a grenade one was carrying was hit by a bullet and exploded. Elert says there have been many similar cases around the world, and the new technology is being sold to other friendly armies.

He says Israel began using the new grenades in recent months.

He said the technology also makes it easier to store and transport the grenades.