Navy ship explodes

SAN DIEGO: An explosion on a US Navy ship moored at a base in California set off a major fire, injuring 17 sailors and four civilians.

The USS Bonhomme Richard, an amphibious assault vessel, was in port in San Diego for maintenance when the explosion erupted.

Thick smoke could be seen billowing from large sections of the ship before fireboats used water cannon to try to control the blaze.

The injured were taken to hospital for minor injuries. Several firefighters also suffered burns and smoke inhalation.