A detective has told a Belfast court on Thursday his officers found a "small firearms factory" during the search of a west Belfast pensioner's house.
Thomas Maguire was arrested on Tuesday following searches at his Suffolk Drive home.
Guns and explosives were also allegedly found in the 68-year-old's car when he was chased and stopped by police.
Officers investigating suspected dissident republican activity seized four hand guns, a coffee jar grenade and component parts for three others.
Around 100 rounds of ammunition were also found concealed in the boot of Maguire's vehicle, a detective said.
The accused faces charges of possessing explosives with intent to endanger life, two counts of having firearms with intent, and possessing articles for use in terrorism.
Belfast Magistrates Court heard his home was searched after his fingerprint was allegedly found on a gun seized in Newry last year.
A detective constable said: "What we uncovered in September 2010 is what we would describe as a small firearms factory."
When Maguire arrived at the scene and saw police he drove off, triggering a car chase which led to his detention, the court was told.
Defence barrister Eugene McKenna, instructed by Padraig O'Muirigh solicitors, claimed Maguire should be bailed on health grounds.
The lawyer set out a number of serious medical complaints, including heart disease, liver problems and jaundice suffered by his client.
"He is a man in a parlous state of health," Mr McKenna said.
It was argued that prison doctors may not be able to provide the same constant care he receives.
District Judge Bagnall refused bail, and Maguire was remanded in custody to appear again by video link next month.
