Harry's tank training

May 12, 2006, 16:09 GMT

Britain's Prince Harry will be driving tanks and firing guns as a part of his new officer training.

The training will prepare the young royal for his immediate transfer to Iraq - although many senior officers have questioned the prince's deployment to the front line.

Harry will be taught to command a team of 11 soldiers when he begins training at Bovington, England on May 22.

According to Britain's Daily Star newspaper, the five month course will include driving and fixing tanks, as well as, lessons on tactics, signalling and weapons.

Captain Al Heathcote, who will be training the prince, said: 'I know he's very keen to get started and we're very excited to have him join us.

'Harry will be commanding operations, but still needs to know how to drive and fire a tank in an emergency.'

The 21-year-old is training to be a Reconnaissance Officer - a role which includes monitoring the enemy's front line movements.

A squadron from the Household Cavalry, which Harry will join in October, will be sent to Iraq for six months in early 2007.

The royal has made it clear in the past he wants to fight alongside his men on operations.

The prince - who is third in line to the throne - can expect a gruelling regime which will include six hours of training and two hours of exercise every day.

However, his weekends will be free, so the prince can look forward to meeting up with his girlfriend Chelsy Davy.

Copyright 2006 BANG Media International