This is the moment thick smoke bellows in the air after an explosion on an assault ship at the US Naval Base in San Diego while 160 sailors were on board.
The explosion took place on board the USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD-6), a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship, and one of the US’ 10 big-deck amphibious assault ships.
At least 18 US Navy personnel were injured, although no one is reported to be in a serious condition.
The explosion, which is still under investigation, took place at the US Naval Base in the city of San Diego in the US state of California on 12th July at around 8.30am.
News outlet Forbes said there were around 160 sailors carrying out maintenance work on board when the blast happened.
The subsequent fire raged on for over seven hours and caused significant damage to one of the US Navy’s most important assault ships.
These vessels are intended to be an integral part of holding the line against a resurgent China.
The cause of the blast and the cost of the damage are still unclear, however, experts expect the assault ship to be out of action for at least a year if it can be repaired at all.
The investigation is ongoing.
Lots of smoke coming off the ship 
Lots of smoke coming off the ship
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Story By: Lee Bullen, Sub-Editor: Michael Leidig, Agency: Newsflash
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