Unexploded ordnance has been encountered at a private residence in Exmouth. The relatively unusual anti-tank rocket was manufactured in the U.S during the 1950s.

Royal Navy specialists positively identified the High Explosive Anti Tank (HEAT) munition. Once deemed safe enough to move, the bomb squad brought it to the local beach where it was destroyed in a controlled explosion.

Click here for a news article. Note, this device has been misreported as a mortar bomb.

anti-tank rocket
The American ‘Super Bazooka’ and a HEAT anti-tank rocket round.

The 3.5″ calibre weapon and M28 rockets were manufactured during the 1950s. The weapon system saw extensive action during the Korean War. Often referred to as the Super Bazooka, it was a more powerful upgrade to the WWII era Bazooka.

Each round has two hazardous elements. The warhead contains a 0.86kg high-explosive shaped-charge and the rocket engine contains solid fuel (black powder).

Why was an anti-tank rocket found in a private garden?

When servicemen returned from 20th Century conflicts, it was not uncommon for them to bring home souvenirs. Surprisingly, soldiers well aware of the associated hazard occasionally brought back unexploded ordnance. Unwanted items are then occasionally buried in back gardens, as an easy means of disposal.