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Three soldiers killed in Afghanistan have pushed Britain's death toll past that of the Falklands War.
The latest soldier, from 36 Engineer Regiment, part of the counter-IED Task Force, died on Monday leading a team conducting route clearance operations in the Nad-e-Ali District, in central Helmand Province.
Two soldiers from the Royal Scots Borderers, 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, were killed by an explosion in Sangin the previous day.
A total of 256 British servicemen and women have now died since operations in Afghanistan began in October 2001. The casualties were announced as Defence Secretary Bob Ainsworth insisted Britain must hold its resolve.
The Ministry of Defence would not confirm whether the latest death was involved in Operation Moshtarak, a major offensive against insurgents in central Helmand due to begin in the coming days.
Mr Ainsworth previously warned British casualties were a "very real risk" during the bid to clear militants from areas surrounding the town of Marjah in Helmand.
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But he said: "We have seen an intense, hard and bloody period in Afghanistan but, as we prepare to consolidate our progress with the launch of Operation Moshtarak, it is imperative that we hold our resolve. The national security of the UK and the safety of its citizens depends on that. Our presence in Afghanistan is vital in preventing it from once again becoming a haven for terrorists who would seek to threaten the UK.
"In taking the fight to the insurgents, providing security and hope for the Afghan people and building up their own security forces, we will - and must - succeed."
Chief of the Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup said while the Falklands milestone would attract attention, British troops would continue their work regardless. He said: "We remember and honour all those who have given their lives in the line of duty and pay tribute to the significant progress that they have helped to achieve.
"Sad milestones such as this naturally attract attention in the UK, but in theatre our people continue resolutely and courageously with the task of assisting Afghans to build their own future."
