An Australian soldier serving with the Special Operations Task Group was killed in action overnight when an improvised explosive device detonated during a mission in southern Afghanistan.
The soldier was conducting a partnered clearance operation against an insurgent network that directly influences insurgent activity in Uruzgan when the incident occurred.
The experienced Special Operations Soldier was assisting in the clearance of a suspected insurgent compound when the device detonated, killing him instantly.
Chief of the Defence Force General David Hurley extended his condolences on behalf of Army and the Defence community.
“I offer my deepest sympathy to the soldier’s family and his friends. Our thoughts are also with his mates who remain in the field,” General Hurley said.
The fallen soldier was evacuated to a nearby ISAF medical facility.
No other Australian or Afghan personnel were killed or wounded in the incident.
“The Special Operations mission remains ongoing so I cannot provide specific details about the location or the mission itself without risking the safety of this young man’s comrades,” General Hurley said.
The soldier’s family has asked that Defence not release personal information about the young man and his service at this time.
General Hurley said he was a highly qualified soldier with operational experience.
“His Commanding Officer described him as an exceptional soldier who will be remembered as genuine, honest and dedicated. His loss will be felt deeply by all who knew him.
“The soldier’s death is a solemn reminder of the dangers our servicemen and women face in Afghanistan each day.
“The loss of any member of the Defence family is significant in its own right and we must not forget the service or sacrifice of our servicemen and women,” General Hurley said.