04 August,2011 08:26 AM IST | | Agencies
The Duchess of Cambridge has been on a gruelling SAS-run course to protect her against kidnap.
Kate (29) went through the personal protection programme because her profile has soared following her wedding to Prince William. Her new-found royal status has also made her a target for terrorists and abductors.
The course described as 'very tough, physically and mentally' teaches key survival skills such as noticing anything unusual in routine surroundings, how to react when attacked and how to build a relationship with hostage-takers.
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Other elements include driving under pressure. A source said, "The Palace wants to ensure Kate's new status doesn't make her vulnerable to attack.
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She has been well trained in what to do should the unthinkable happen." The course is usually taught by SAS, personal protection or MI5 officers.
