Police have discovered a rocket launcher and warhead in West Belfast following an investigation into republican dissident activity. A police spokesman said the recovery of the items has 'saved lives'.
Northern Ireland Police Federation chairman Terry Spence, who represents rank and file officers, praised his "brave" colleagues on their find.
He said the weapons were "undoubtedly intended to murder officers" and that there is "hiding place for terrorists".
Earlier this month Irish police intercepted a suspected dissident republican haul of rocket launchers and explosives in Co Tipperary.
It is believed the arms were en route to Northern Ireland.
Police said they believe the recovery of a rocket launcher "has saved lives".
The Police Service for Northern Ireland has has been on high alert after a series of attempts by republican dissidents to kill members of the security forces.
– PSNI spokesmanThese weapon systems are clearly intended to kill and we should be in no doubt that the recovery of these items has saved lives.
A police spokesman has said that the rocket launcher and warhead found in Belfast were intended to be used to kill.
Officers found the weapons while searching a house in Hawthorn Street in West Belfast.
A rocket launcher and a warhead have been discovered by police investigating dissident republicans in West Belfast, a Police Service of Northern Ireland spokesman said tonight.