The Royal Irish Regiment squaddie killed in an explosion in Afghanistan was today described as an “intelligent, bright soldier” who was “dedicated to his comrades”.

Ranger Justin Cupples, originally from Co Cavan, came under attack while on routine foot patrol in Sangin — a Taliban stronghold in the north of Helmand Province.

The 29-year-old, who was married, sustained massive injuries when an improvised explosive device detonated early yesterday morning. An Afghan interpreter was also injured.

In a statement the Ministry of Defence said: “It is with deep regret that the Ministry of Defence must confirm that a soldier from 1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment has been killed today, Thursday, September 4, 2008, in southern Afghanistan.

“Early this morning, whilst conducting a routine foot patrol near Sangin District Centre, a soldier was involved in an explosion which is believed to be caused by an improvised explosive device. Despite the best medical efforts at the scene, the soldier died as a result of his wounds.”

It is understood that Ranger Cupples had lived in Miami in the USA, but was originally from Co Cavan.He had formerly served in the US Navy and took part in the initial invasion of Afghanistan in 2001.

In an interview during pre-deployment training in Kenya last year Ranger Cupples said: “My parents are originally from Ireland and they had moved back there some years ago.

“So when I got out of the Navy five years ago I didn't really have any family in the States, so I moved back to Co Cavan.

“I lived there since 2003 and kind of missed the military, but at the same time I wanted to stay in Europe. So the Royal Irish seemed the best option to me at the time.”

Known as ‘Cups’ to his friends, Ranger Cupples was described as a capable and dedicated soldier. He had completed the Operational Language Training Course where he developed his skill for Pastu and used this to great effect on all patrols — often the platoon was able to deploy without an interpreter as he was more than capable of communicating with the local nationals.

Lieutenant Colonel Ed Freely, Commanding Officer of the Royal Irish 1st Battalion led the tributes. He described the death as a “great loss”.

“Justin Cupples was a character. He stood out as such. He was from Cavan, but I always thought of him as our ‘US Ranger’.

He had an eclectic international background having grown up in Miami, Florida. He also had some prior service in the US Navy.

His parents were based in New York yet maintained a family home in Virginia, Co Cavan, Ireland.

In 2006 Ranger Cupples married Vilma, his Lithuanian wife, after meeting her in Ireland.

“He was drawn to the battalion by the Irish fighting spirit and camaraderie.

“He joined the Battalion and C Company in Tern Hill, Shropshire in 2007. He was an intelligent, bright soldier. I recall engaging with him on a number of occasions – as I say he stood out – whether on arduous training in Kenya last year or on pre-deployment training for Afghanistan. He was never shy to offer an opinion. Ranger Cupples was part of C (Ranger) Company, an element of 1 Royal Irish that was detached to support 2 Parachute Regiment, as Battlegroup North, in Sangin for Op Herrick 8. He was loyal, strong and determined; a very good soldier. I had last seen him in Sangin several weeks ago, where I recall his professional, relaxed and confident assessment of the situation. For almost six months he and his fellow Rangers have fought hard to rid Sangin of the evil scourge of the Taliban and bring security to the town and its troubled people.

“Ranger Cupples was a true Irish Ranger – tough, committed and dedicated to his comrades. His colleagues, mindful of the ultimate sacrifice made by Justin, and with him to the last, continue with his and their mission - with steadfast courage and reinforced purpose.”

Secretary of State Shaun Woodward also expressed sadness.

“My thoughts are with the family and the Regiment,” he said.

And First Minister Peter Robinson offered his condolences to the family following the news.

The Royal Irish Regiment are nearing the completion of their six-month tour of duty. They form part of 16 Air Assault Brigade and and are serving alongside members of the Parachute Regiment and 5 Royal Scots, leading the British Military Formation in southern Afghanistan.

The incident happened just days after Conservative Party leader David Cameron visited Afghanistan and addressed British troops from 2 Para Battle Group, which includes soldiers from 1 Royal Irish Ranger Company, at Sangin.

The area is extremely volatile and in recent months has been the scene of vicious fighting between British forces and the Taliban.

In July, six Royal Irish soldiers narrowly escaped death after the worst single attack since the troops arrived in March. This death brings to 117 the number of British serviceman killed in Afghanist since operations began in 2001.