In what appears to be the result of human error, 20 Iron Dome rockets that were being towed fell off the trailer base, rendering them unusable. The blunder will cost the military millions of shekels according to report. Israel Air Force Commander Major-General Ido Nehushtan has ordered an investigation into the incident which occurred on an air force base, in an Iron Dome facility.

The soldiers from the air force unit responsible for the rocket defense system apparently failed to properly secure the 20 rockets, which were armed with warheads. Baruch Hashem, there are no reports of injuries but the rockets cannot be used for fear they may have sustained damage since they fell from a height that compels such a move, disqualifying them from use. Officials report each rocket carries a price tag of $50,000.

The damaged rockets will be sent for examination to determine if they are usable and/or reparable.

Officials report there was no fear of the rockets exploding due to the fall, but if anyone was standing close enough, s/he could have been seriously injured or killed.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)