Prince Harry has been put through a brutal training exercise where he was hooded and interrogated in preparation for his return to front line fighting in Afghanistan later this year.
The 27-year-old was reportedly taken through a series of 'nightmare scenarios' at RAF St Mawgan in Cornwall where he was also coached on torture techniques he could face if his Apache helicopter crashes behind enemy lines.
A friend told The Sun: “He's being prepared for capture and torture by the enemy in a warzone. It doesn't get more real than this. If Harry's Apache goes down, he's on his own.”
Harry took part in a 'defence, survival, evasion, resistance and extraction' program.
Despite running through the possible dangers the reality of what would happen to the Prince if he feel into enemy hands is surely a worry to both the Army and the Royal Family.
The friend added: “Obviously nothing can prepare for the cruel reality of capture - especially at Al Qaeda's hands - but this is designed as a wake-up call. If he gets through this, he'll make the grade. He's sure he will.”
The third in line for the throne has been desperate to return to front line combat since his first tour in 2008 was cut short after a global media blackout was breached by an Australian magazine.
It is unknown when the Prince may leave for Afghanistan as it will probably be kept a secret to guard his safety and that of his comrades fighting alongside him. It will have to fit around Harry's commitments to the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.
As well as the bank holiday celebrations in June the Prince will also be making overseas visits on behalf of his Grandmother in March to the Caribbean.
If Harry does return to Afghanistan this year it will mean both Princes will have served overseas in 2012. Prince William will shortly depart for a six week tour in the Falklands.
Prince Harry: First Tour Of Duty
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