Jordan dives deep: Unique underwater military museum unveiled
The authorities in Jordan have unveiled a unique museum project. Placing military exhibits underwater is an intriguing concept, and this project has been meticulously planned. Here's a look at the underwater museum in the bay off the coast of Aqaba.
Jordan has completed an extraordinary project by establishing an underwater military museum at a depth of about 28 metres. The exhibition in the bay of Aqaba features 19 exhibits, including tanks, an AH-1 Cobra attack helicopter, and anti-aircraft guns. These exhibits, donated by the Jordanian armed forces, are strategically placed on the floor of the Red Sea, creating a one-of-a-kind tourist attraction.
Underwater tourism
The project, initiated by the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), was designed to blend with the coral reef ecosystem. Similar initiatives exist elsewhere, such as in Bahrain, where a specially prepared Boeing 747 aircraft was submerged. The Jordanian authorities highlight that the museum offers "new and unique museum experiences," merging sports, environmental awareness, and military history.
Aqaba, Jordan's sole port on the Red Sea, has become a popular destination for divers. The city offers numerous attractions, including submerged military exhibits and a Lockheed L-1011 TriStar aircraft. Authorities use these underwater installations to boost tourism and educate visitors about the marine environment.
Is such a museum ecological?
However, not everyone is convinced of the ecological benefits of such projects. Adriana Humanes, a marine ecology specialist, points out potential risks associated with the corrosion of materials, which can release heavy metals into the water. Despite these concerns, the Jordanian museum attracts tourists, offering unforgettable experiences and unique holiday photos.
The inspiration behind developing such tourist projects is pursuing sustainable development and integrating tourist attractions with the natural environment. However, experts caution that using unprotected metals might contaminate the marine environment. The submerged items are specially prepared to minimize the risk of pollution.
