The US army are using songs by Metallica and Thin Lizzy to fight the Taliban in Afghanistan, it's been reported.

Special forces are understood to be playing the music loudly in a bid to filter out insurgents from villages in Marjah.

An unnamed sergeant told the AFP that Taliban supporters “hate” the music, and that it is also “motivating” for US marines.

Other songs apparently played from a vehicle fitted with “powerful speakers” include 'Pretty Fly For A White Guy' by The Offspring.

The music is mixed with messages that threaten Taliban loyalists and informs them “they're gonna die”, according to The Guardian.

The alleged tactic has been condemned by a commander of the marines in the region, although he said he had not heard any music.

(by Jason Gregory)