Two British soldiers were killed and six injured in a bomb blast in southern Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence said today.

The news came as the US military announced that Afghan militants are believed to have captured one of its soldiers.

The developments threaten to overshadow the launch of a major US operation in Helmand province, where the majority of British troops are based.

A “big bomb” struck a combat vehicle carrying British troops close to Lashkar Gah, the capital of Helmand, yesterday. Everyone in the vehicle was killed or injured. Next of kin have been informed. The two dead soldiers were from 1st Battalion Welsh Guards and 2nd Royal Tank Regiment, respectively.

The men were taking part in Operation Panchai Palang (Panthers Claw), which is running separately to the US offensive, also in Helmand. Both offensives are designed to wrest control from Taleban forces.

Lieutenant-Colonel Nick Richardson, spokesman for Task Force Helmand, said: “The loss of these brave soldiers has hit us all very deeply; we grieve for them at this very sad time. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, friends and colleagues who feel the greatest loss.”

In Kabul, meanwhile, the US military confirmed that an American soldier has been missing since Tuesday. A military spokesman said the trooper was believed to have been taken captive by militants.

“We are using all of our available resources to find him and provide for his safe return," Captain Elizabeth Mathias said.

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