Despite recording losses during the recent conflict in Iraq —including seven soldiers from Fife — Lieutenant Colonel Steven Cartwright insists the tour of duty is being viewed as an honour for The Black Watch.

The battalion will be expected to carry out a wide range of duties and troops will assure the Afghan population that reconstruction and governance will continue to improve in areas not yet being patrolled by members of the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force.

“As the commanding officer of The Black Watch, 3rd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, I am delighted the battalion has been given this opportunity to serve our nation in Afghanistan,” Lt Col Cartwright said.

“The battalion will be the main mobile infantry element of 19 Light Brigade. This will be the first time the battalion has deployed together for a few years and we do so firm in the knowledge of the support of our families and our regiment.”

Roadside explosions and even suicide bombers are rife in Helmand — just as they were during The Black Watch’s time in Iraq.

Lt Col Cartwright continued, “This will be a considerable challenge to the battalion: securing the respect and trust of the Afghan nationals is our goal and we can only do that by providing them with security that is so badly needed.

“I am sure the summer in Afghanistan will be an extremely demanding time, both physically and intellectually.”

Over 400 soldiers will be involved in the spring deployment.

The news comes just days after four Royal Marines, including three from Arbroath’s 45 Commando Group, were killed in Afghanistan. Another marine from 45 was killed last month.

Lt Col Cartwright described his troops as being well prepared.

“If we can match the professionalism and humility displayed by those who have gone before, then I am confident we will succeed in our mission,” he said.

The battalion has taken part in arduous training over the last year, finishing off with a six-week exercise in Kenya.

Thirty territorial troops from 52nd Lowland and 51st Highland, 6th and 7th Battalions The Royal Regiment of Scotland, have been mobilised to join their regular counterparts.