Two British soldiers from The Royal Scots Borderers died yesterday as a result of an explosion in Sangin, near Helmand province, the Ministry of Defence said today.
Next of kin have been informed.
A total of 255 brave British servicemen and women have died since operations in Afghanistan began in October 2001 - bringing the UK death toll level with that of the 1982 Falklands War.
The soldiers, who were serving with the 3 Rifles Battle Group in Sangin, were killed by an improvised explosive device while on a foot patrol.
Task Force Helmand spokesman Lieutenant Colonel David Wakefield said: "It is with deep sadness I must inform you that two British soldiers were killed last night by an explosion near Sangin in northern Helmand.
"They were on a foot patrol bringing security to local people near Patrol Base Wishtan when the explosion caught them.
"Two of our comrades have been cruelly taken from us, but their bravery and fortitude will not be forgotten."
