Australian Prime Minister John Howard Monday expressed the nation's sorrow at an accident in which an Australian soldier has died in the Middle East during a training exercise for service in Iraq.

Special Air Service (SAS) Warrant Officer David Russell Nary, from Perth, capital of Australia's state of Western Australia, died at the scene after being struck by a vehicle despite colleagues tried desperately to save his life.

Nary had served Australia's military since 1981 and was preparing to join Australia's military operations in Iraq.

However, the specific area where Nary was training was not disclosed.

"It's appropriate that I speak for all of my fellow Australians in saying to his family how very, very sad we are at the death of this wonderful member of the SAS," Australian Associated Press quoted Howard as saying.

"I extend my condolences to the man's wife and children and other family members and friends and record the valiant efforts made by a number of his colleagues to give first aid in order to try and save him," he said

Australian Defense Minister Robert Hill also extended his " deepest condolences and sympathy" to Nary's family and friends.

The Australian Defense Force has launched a full inquiry into the accident.

Australia is maintaining around 1,300 troops in the Middle East.

Source: Xinhua