The incident involving the detachment of a rocket-launcher mount from a National Guard H145M helicopter in the Peyia area of Paphos had a second act, with another part also falling to the ground.
According to Sigma correspondent Marios Ignatiou, a smaller fragment fell just a few metres from where the main launcher was found. The piece landed in the garden of a private residence, causing minor damage to outdoor equipment.
After the incident was reported and received wide public attention, the homeowner contacted the authorities to inform them about the additional debris. Members of the National Guard immediately went to the scene and collected the second fragment, as they had done the day before with the main launcher that had landed in a nearby orchard.
Investigation under way
According to the Ministry of Defence, the helicopter was on a training flight and taking part in an exercise in the wider Peyia area, heading towards the Akamas peninsula, when the empty rocket-launcher mount detached from the fuselage under circumstances that are still being investigated.
The National Guard has already launched an internal inquiry into the incident. The helicopter’s manufacturer, which participates in the pilot training programme, has also been informed and is cooperating with the authorities.
The Ministry of Defence has requested an immediate update on the causes and conditions that led to the incident. Although no injuries were reported, the event has raised serious questions about flight and equipment safety.
Also read: Empty rocket pod falls from National Guard helicopter in Paphos
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