A LYNEHAM Hercules has been destroyed in Iraq after it was damaged in a landing accident.
The Wiltshire base has confirmed that the plane, believed to be a C-130J, was destroyed but that the aircraft crew and passengers were safe.
There were two minor injuries among those on board.
It is the first of its variant to be lost since it came into service in 1999.
Reports suggest the aircraft was carrying out a supply mission in the Maysan Province of Iraq near the Iranian border. The Hercules aircraft fly routine missions to the area to drop supplies to battlegroups operating in the area.
The aircraft was destroyed as it was deemed too dangerous for coalition forces to repair and recover it.
The RAF has started an investigation.
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