British commandos deploy to Helmand

LASHKAR GAH, Afghanistan, Oct. 3 (UPI) -- A British Marine commando unit Friday began a deployment in Afghanistan, taking over command of a NATO task force in the volatile Helmand province.

British Royal Marines from the 45 Commando unit began a deployment, joining with the 3 Commando Brigade in the Sangin area of northern Helmand. Officials say 45 Commando will lead the Battlegroup North.

The unit takes command from 16 Air Assault Brigade as part of the NATO Task Force Helmand, the British Ministry of Defense reported.

The 700-soldier 45 Commando, which was the first British unit operating in Afghanistan when the military conflict began in 2002, has deployed to the Helmand province as part of an ongoing campaign to secure the region for reconstruction projects and to provide breathing room for the Afghan National Army and police to establish themselves.

"We've done six months of extensive training for this tour, as well as specialist training for specific roles, such as driver, sniper and signaler," Lt. Col. Jim Morris, 45 Commando commanding officer, said in a statement.

"So we're fit, focused and ready for the challenges and rigors of Helmand."