Tank explosion during live-fire drill in Japan kills two

A tank explosion during a live-fire exercise at a Japan Self-Defense Forces training ground has left two servicemen dead and several others injured.

Broadcaster Fuji TV reported that the incident took place at the Hijudai Training Ground, located in Oita Prefecture on the island of Kyushu.

Preliminary information suggests that a shell ruptured inside the tank’s gun during firing, triggering the explosion.

Two servicemen were killed in the incident, while another remains in critical condition. A female servicemember was also hospitalised but is reported to be conscious and able to speak.

Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the malfunction.

By Sabina Mammadli