Harry, 23, who is third in line to the throne, has spent the last 10 weeks serving in Helmand Province, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) reported on Thursday.

As a member of the Household Cavalry, Prince Harry has been based in a former madrassa along with a Gurkha regiment, in southern Helmand. Aside from foot patrols, he is also acting as a tactical air controller, calling up allied air cover in support of ground forces.

The deployment was subject to a news blackout deal, which broke down after being leaked by foreign media.

Richard Dannatt, Chief of the General Staff for the British Army, said he was disappointed the news had leaked.

"This is in stark contrast to the highly responsible attitude that the whole of the UK print and broadcast media, along with a small number overseas, who have entered into an understanding with us over the coverage of Prince Harry on operations," he said.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown said Prince Harry had been an "exemplary soldier. " "The whole of Britain will be proud of the outstanding service he is giving," he added.

Last year, the prince's planned tour to Iraq had to be canceled due to a security risk.

Speaking ahead of this tour, Harry spoke of his relief over the mission.

Paddy Harverson, communications secretary for the Prince of Wales, said: "Prince Harry is very proud to serve his country on operations alongside his fellow soldiers and to do the job he has been trained for."