Soldiers killed in tank crash

The tank was taking part in army manoeuvres

An investigation has started into the deaths of two soldiers who died when their Challenger tank overturned during army exercises on Salisbury Plain.

Two other soldiers suffered minor injuries as the 70-tonne tank slipped of a track and rolled over.

The accident happened on MOD land at the deserted village of Imber near Warminster, Wiltshire, where regular tank training exercises are carried out.

BBC reporter Joe Campbell, speaking at the scene, said it was believed that the tank commander and the gunner were killed.

The Challenger tank weighs 70 tonnes

He said: "It was going along a track at the time and it seems to have slipped off and turned over.

"Normally those are the two people that have their heads out of the turret.

"So it looks as though they were caught when the tank rolled over."

Our correspondent said the crew was believed to belong to the Royal Tank Regiment.

Battle exercise

MoD spokesman Ben White said: "We can confirm that there were two fatalities following the incident involving a Challenger 2 tank.

"The other two occupants have now returned to their units after being treated for minor injuries."

The tank was taking part in an exercise with other Challenger 2 battle tanks.

After the accident the other vehicles were held in a central area while emergency services attended the scene.

It took several hours for the 70-tonne tank to be righted.

It is likely to be some time before the dead soldiers are named.