MORE than 5,000 troops are taking part in one of the biggest ever military exercises on Salisbury Plain in preparation for action in Afghanistan.

Some 500 vehicles from 16 Air Assault Brigade, the Army's premier rapid reaction fighting unit are involved in Operation Herrick along with a formidable array of helicopters, jets and transporter planes.

And this week Armed Forces Minister Bob Ainsworth apologised for the noise, disruption and inconvenience to people living in communities dotted around the Plain.

He said: "An exercise of this scale underlines the huge importance of the plain as one of our key military training areas.

"Good training under realistic conditions with the latest equipment is vital to the success of any military operation.

"This exercise in Wiltshire, and indeed beyond, will help ensure the troops from 16 Air Assault Brigade succeed on operations.

"I appreciate the sheer scale of this exercise may bring some local disruption but please be assured that we have made every effort to keep this as small as possible. I would like to thank people in the region for their co-operation, support and understanding."

It is important to underline the vital role our troops are playing on the ground in Helmand Province as part of our continuing effort to support the democratically elected Afghan Government and bring security to the people of that country."

Mr Ainsworth added: "Our forces are in Afghanistan as part of an international coalition of 38 countries. All are working for a better Afghanistan.

"Together with the Foreign Office and Department for International Development, we are working with the Afghan Government to train its army, create strong institutions, build schools and hospitals and drive out insurgents.

"These insurgents seek to return the country to chaos. They want a land for training terrorists - but without education for many of its children. If you doubt the connection between everyday UK and what our troops are doing to bring stability to Afghanistan, please remember that almost all heroin on the streets of Britain originates from the lawless parts of that country.

"It is a tough and dangerous job, but it is also a challenge that our forces are rising to magnificently. Highly trained and professional, they are now better equipped than ever before.

"Indeed, the people I have met in Iraq and Afghanistan tell me that their kit is fit for purpose and the best they have ever had. I have been profoundly impressed by their sympathetic and sophisticated approach to operating in the most demanding circumstances. It is an approach based upon iron will to fight where appropriate and an unflinching determination to make a difference for the better.

"I to extend my best wishes and good luck to all the men and women who will be deploying with 16 Air Assault Brigade. They will make an invaluable contribution to Afghanistan and I look forward to their safe return."