Bid lodged for new targets at MoD weapons range

The Holbeach Air Weapons Range has been operating since the 1920s

Plans have been submitted for two barges that could be used for bombing practice at a Ministry of Defence site in Lincolnshire.

The boats would be based at Holbeach Air Weapons Range, near Gedney Drove End.

The RAF and planes from other Nato countries use the range to practise dropping bombs and firing weapons.

It has been in use since the 1920s.

Aircraft including Typhoons practise at the weapons range

The application submitted to South Holland District Council said that "through age and corrosion", two of the site's targets needed replacing in order to ensure the range remained operational.

An RAF spokesperson said: "Holbeach Weapons Range has long supported the need for exceptional training for not only the RAF but also Nato allies and partners.

"A new application has been submitted for two barges to be used at Holbeach Weapons Range.

"These types of assets have been used in the area for training of this nature since 1926 and will act as simulated targets, allowing aircrew to practise manoeuvres and tactics against different threats they may face."

Listen to highlights from Lincolnshire on BBC Sounds, watch the latest episode of Look North or tell us about a story you think we should be covering here.