Pictures: HMS Montrose test-fires missile

THESE dramatic pictures show the moment a British warship launches a missile at 800 miles-per-hour.

The missile is launched from the HMS Montrose. Picture: PA/ MoD

The HMS Montrose is pictured test-firing a Harpoon class missile, capable of hitting and destroying a target up to 80 miles (128km) away.

The pictures show the dramatic trail left by the 15ft (4.6m) missile, which travels at just under the speed of sound before impact.

The test, conducted just off the east coast, resulted in the target barge being completely destroyed.

The Montrose, based in Plymouth, first set sail in 1992.

Pictures: PA/ MoD