Two British soldiers killed by roadside bomb in Afghanistan

The Ministry of Defence said the men were taking part in a routine patrol in Helmand Province when their vehicle was hit.

Another solider was badly injured in the attack, along with a local interpreter.

Last night the MoD was still trying to contact the next of kin of the two dead men, and said no further details would be released in the meantime.

It was revealed, however, that the third soldier's injuries were not life-threatening.

Lt Col Bridget Rose, spokeswoman for regional command south of the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), said: "ISAF troops, and the Afghans who work alongside them, operate in extremely dangerous conditions.

"It is testament to their courage, resolve and commitment that they continue to bear down on insurgents bent on destroying the lives of the normal hard-working people in Afghanistan.

"This is a profoundly regrettable incident, and our thoughts are naturally with the families and friends of those who have died today."

Roadside bombs are becoming an increasingly popular weapon with the Taliban in Afghanistan.

Similar devices have cost the lives of hundreds of British, American and other coalition troops in Iraq.

More than 7,000 UK personnel are fighting the Taliban, mostly in Helmand Province where they have been locked in a bloody struggle for control since last spring.

Although British troops have won every battle and skirmish to date, the number of dead and injured has mounted steadily.

Critics say UK commanders lack the manpower to strike decisive blows against the Taliban or to secure territory after a victory.

Nato released figures claiming that Taliban roadside bombs and suicide attacks had killed 227 Afghan civilians so far this year - "significantly higher" than the number of Afghan or coalition troops killed.

The statement follows criticism of Nato tactics and mounting concerns particularly among Afghan politicians - over the number of civilians killed in the fighting.

Two weeks ago three British soldiers were killed by an apparent "friendly fire" incident involving American fighter planes.