According to widespread media reports Prince Harry looks set to serve in Iraq by the end of February.

Britain’s Daily Mirror newspaper reports that the Prince, 22, will initially be sent to the southern Iraq town of Basra before being posted along the border to Iran. A senior military source was quoted: “The final details are being sorted, but he is definitely going. Naturally, his royal status has to be taken into account, but he will see action…”

The newspaper reports that Harry is likely to be in charge of a troop of 12 soldiers in light armoured vehicles who will likely spend days or even weeks out in the desert conducting reconnaissance missions. Harry will serve with the Blue and Royals regiment who have been on standby for deployment for some time.

“He has insisted on being able to perform his duties as any other officer would. He won’t be just flying a desk” said a senior military source.

Over 7000 British soldiers are currently deployed in Iraq where they are responsible for securing Basra and surrounding regions from Shi’ite milita and other rival groups.

Clarence House insists that no final decision has been made as to whether Prince William will also be deployed to Iraq however it would seem extremely unlikely that both heirs to the throne would serve at the same time.