Harry to war?

Oct 18, 2006, 15:45 GMT

Britain's Prince Harry is set to begin battle training - fuelling speculation he will be sent to war.

The 22-year-old royal will join a group known as 1 Mech Brigade, which is preparing for deployment to Afghanistan or Iraq in the New Year.

Army officer Harry will spend the next fortnight on the Scottish borders in charge of 12 men from his Blues and Royals regiment.

A source told Britain's The Sun newspaper: "This is Harry's first role since becoming an officer in the Blues and Royals regiment. It is significant that he has been told to join others preparing for overseas duty. His colleagues believe this is proof he will be allowed to fight."

The covert exercise, called Operation Wessex, will then move to the Salisbury Plains in Wiltshire. Harry will wear a special laser suit which shows if he has been 'shot' during training.

The source added: "Harry is desperate to get his teeth into the task. He will be all too aware that next time he is shot it will be for real."

Earlier this year, Harry allegedly threatened to leave the army if he was banned from fighting on the front line.

If he is sent to battle, it is reported that bodyguards would accompany him.

(C) BANG Media International