A British Royal Marine was killed in a roadside bomb explosion while leading a security patrol in southern Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence said Tuesday.

The soldier, from 42 Commando Royal Marines, was on a foot patrol in the Sukmanda area of Nahr-e Seraj district in central Helmand province.

His death brings to 380 the number of British troops killed since operations in Afghanistan began in October 2001. Of these, at least 336 were killed through hostile action.

"The Royal Marine was part of a foot patrol deployed to disrupt insurgent activity in this contested area and so permit the expansion and development of governance," said military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Tim Purbrick.

"His patrol was providing a security screen for other patrols when, leading his patrol, he was fatally injured by an IED (improvised explosive device)."

His next of kin have been informed.

Britain has about 9,500 troops in Afghanistan, making it the second-largest contributor after the United States to the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force.

They are based in Helmand, battling Taliban insurgents and training up local security forces.

Some 32 have been killed this year, including six troops from 42 Commando, all since mid-May.

Prime Minister David Cameron wants all British forces out of a combat role in Afghanistan by 2015.

Tweet

Related Links News From Across The Stans