The deaths bring to more than 300 the number of suspected militants killed in the operation that the Egyptian army, backed by police and other security forces, launched in February as part of a campaign to eradicate insurgents behind a wave of violence in the desert region. 

The statement, issued by the defense ministry, said that troops and security forces also destroyed 15 vehicles laden with weapons and ammunitions while trying to infiltrate the western border, and 17 more in the southern military region. 

In Sinai, the statement said that 13 "extremely dangerous takfiris" were killed in an operation by security forces in the city of al-Arish, the capital of North Sinai province. The term takfiri refers to militants who often accuse some Muslims of being infidels. 

The remaining 39 militants were killed in various military operations across northern and central Sinai, the military statement said, without giving any breakdown, the Middle East Eye reported. 

The Egyptian military has said that hundreds of militants have been killed in the operation, which President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi ordered after an attack on a mosque last November in which hundreds of worshippers died. 

At least 313 suspected militants have died so far, according to a Reuters count based on military statements. 

At least 35 military personnel have also been killed since February. 

Defeating militants and restoring security after years of unrest has been a promise of Sisi, who was re-elected in March in a landslide victory against no real opposition. 

Sisi's critics say his presidency has brought a harsh crackdown on dissent, but supporters say such measures are needed to stabilize Egypt, which was rocked by years of unrest after protests toppled veteran leader Hosni Mubarak in 2011.