A man has died and another is in hospital after an explosion at a military hardware factory in Salisbury.
A 29-year-old from Southampton died in the blast at Chemring Countermeasures facility on Friday evening.
A second man, 26, from Pewsey, is in hospital and his condition is described as serious but stable.
The factory is about five miles from the Ministry of Defence’s Porton Down laboratory, which has been investigating the novichok poisoning attacks.
Police said the attacks were not linked to Friday’s explosion, which is still being investigated.
Detective Inspector Simon Pope said: “We are working closely with the Health and Safety Executive on this investigation to determine the cause of the explosion and our enquiries will be continuing at the site today.
“A cordon remains in place at the site while investigators carry out their enquiries.
“We would like to reassure the public that this incident was contained as soon as possible and there is no risk to those living in the local area.
“Our thoughts remain with those involved in this incident, as well as their family, friends and colleagues at this time.”
On its website, Chemring Countermeasures says it produces hardware, including flares, chaff and decoys, to help protect military ships, aircraft and land platforms from guided missile threats.
It has also designed countermeasure systems for the Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jet.
Chemring Group business director Andy Hogben said in a statement that “the thoughts and support of Chemring Group are with the families at this time”.
He added that the firm has also launched its own investigation into the cause of the blast.
From – SkyNews
