The soldier, serving as part of the Counter-IED Task Force, was killed in an explosion in the Sangin area of Helmand province.
Spokesman for Task Force Helmand, Lieutenant Colonel James Carr-Smith, said yesterday:
"It is with sadness I must inform you that a soldier from 36 Engineer Regiment, serving as part of the Counter-Improvised Explosive Device Task Force, was killed this afternoon.
"He was part of a search team that was involved in an operation to provide security in Sangin district when tragically he was killed in an explosion.
"He died seeking to improve the lives of local Afghans. He will be sorely missed by his many friends. His sacrifice will not be forgotten. We will remember him."
Next of kin have been informed and have asked for a period of grace before further details are released.
The Ministry of Defence must confirm that the death of this soldier is being investigated as a suspected friendly fire incident.
Initial reports suggest that a smoke screen was requested to enable the movement of elements of 36 Engineer Regiment who were operating on the ground in the Sangin area. As this was being undertaken, it is believed that one of the smoke shells may have fallen short of its intended target. The investigation is now ongoing to determine the facts and no further comment will be made at this time.