A British soldier has been killed by an explosion in southern Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence said.
The serviceman, from The Royal Dragoon Guards, was guarding his comrades when he was hit by the blast in the Nahr-e Saraj District of Helmand Province on Friday afternoon. His family have been informed.
The death takes the number of British troops who have died since operations in Afghanistan began to 299.
Task Force Helmand spokesman Lieutenant Colonel James Carr-Smith paid tribute to the soldier.
He said: "He was providing security for a patrol that was conducting a clearance operation when tragically he was struck by an explosion.
"He died doing his duty. He was a courageous and dedicated soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice. He will be greatly missed and his actions will not be forgotten. We will remember him."
Two Americans were also killed in southern Afghanistan, bringing the total of international troops killed in fighting this month to 51.
The deadliest month of the conflict for international forces was July last year when 75 were killed.
