Afghan and U.S.-led coalition troops say they have killed several suspected Taliban militants during an operation in southern Helmand province.

Coalition officials said in a statement released Tuesday that the latest clash occurred as troops searched a compound for militants associated with the Taliban, as well as others helping foreign fighters.

During the search a gun battle erupted in which several suspected militants died.

A coalition statement said no civilians were killed or injured in the fighting.

The statement adds that a cache of weapons including rifles, rockets and explosives was found and destroyed following following the battle.

Helmand province has been badly affected by the Taliban insurgency. The area is one of the world's top opium growing regions.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP and AP.