The Royal Gurkha Rifles (1RGR) have been deployed to Afghanistan in what will be their first army tour for many of the soldiers.

Troops from B Company 1st Battalion based in Folkestone will be away for six months on Operation TORAL as part of NATO’s Resolute Support Mission to develop the military capability of the armed forces in Afghanistan.

1RGR will be the lead battalion in the Kabul Protection Unit, taking over from 1st Battalion The Welsh Guards who were deployed earlier this year to help on issues such as security, development and governance, work seen as crucial to reducing the terrorist threat to the UK.

The battalion will be deploying alongside other British Army units and international partners including 3rd Battalion the Parachute Regiment, 1st Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment and the Royal Australian Regiment.

Second lieutenant Jonathan Hogg says: “Our specific role is to offer armoured force protection, effectively a bodyguard role within the city.

“It will involve picking up and delivering mentors and advisors to specific safe spaces in the city, ensuring their protection whilst there and returning them.”

1RGR have undergone specific training to ensure that they are fully prepared for their new role, utilising the latest equipment including Foxhound vehicles and VIRTUS body armour.

For many of the soldiers this will be their first operational deployment.

Lance corporal Anuch Gurung explained: “It is going to be the first tour for many of us but we have trained hard and are good to go.

“The only thing we have to do now is get into theatre and do the job we have been set to do, to the best of our ability.”

Earlier this year, the unit represented the brigade of Gurkhas at the Royal wedding.

They have a special connection with Prince Harry, who presented them with medals after their last tour to Afghanistan.