Navy: 2 missiles detonated underwater near Calif.

[September 27, 2011]  SAN DIEGO (AP) -- The Navy says two Sea Sparrow missiles have been safely detonated on the floor of the Pacific Ocean off the coast of San Diego County.

The Navy says the controlled detonation occurred Monday less than two miles from Camp Pendleton without any harm to marine life.

The missiles were dropped into the ocean Aug. 30 while being taken by helicopter to an amphibious assault ship. The Navy says the helicopter crew jettisoned the missiles when the load began to swing excessively and struck the aircraft's fuselage, posing a danger.

Navy explosive ordnance disposal technicians detonated the missiles where they lay in about 60 feet of water.

After the detonation, the Navy says its divers inspected the site and found no visible pieces and no dead fish.

[Associated Press]

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