RAF launches inquiry into missing bomb

THE RAF launched aninvestigation yesterday after it lost a practice bomb during a training flight.

The bomb accidentally dislodged from a Harrier jet after it took off from RAF Wittering in Cambridgeshire in the east of England on Tuesday morning.

Officials have launched a search for the bomb which, they hope, landed in a nearby drop zone or in the sea.

But retired squadron leader Tony Walsh, spokesman for the base, said it could have landed outside its designated drop zone in neighbouring Lincolnshire.

Anyone who finds the 15in bomb is advised to contact police.

Mr Walsh said: “In all likelihood, the practice bomb would have detonated on impact... It contains a small amount of explosive and has the same properties as a commercial firework.

“A search of the flight path area was carried out last night, but due to the size of the practice bomb, it could be difficult to spot.

“We also believe it would have landed in the sea, but we can’t discount a ground landing.

“An investigation has been convened to determine the cause of the bomb’s release.”

The bomb is described as light blue with brown tape around its base. It is not live though it looks and feels like a real bomb. It has a fuse designed to send out smoke when it hits its target.