The missile launched at 8:45 am (0445 GMT) missed its target, the spokesperson said, adding she believed it was the first attack of its kind.

"I have not heard of any incident of this type," said Sergeant Amy Abbott, who has been working at the military's press center for one month.

The missile attack comes as US forces have noted an increase in the "sophistication" of guerrilla strikes, notably with the use of landmines and explosives-rigged booby traps, that have claimed 33 lives since Washington declared an end to major hostilities on May 1.

The US military suspects followers of ousted leader Saddam Hussein of conducting the grisly campaign to oust the coalition forces from Iraq.

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WAR.WIRE