The troops from 181 Amphibious Battalion had responded to the conflict in the Okuoma community where they were killed on Thursday, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau said in a statement.
"The reinforcement team led by the commanding officer was also attacked, leading to the death of the commanding officer, two majors, one captain and 12 soldiers," Gusau said.
The chief of defense has directed an immediate investigation and the arrest of those involved, the army official said, adding, "so far, a few arrests have been made while steps (are) in place to unravel the motive behind the attack."
Delta state communities frequently experience clashes which are sometimes deadly and are over land or compensation for oil spills by energy companies with operations in the area.