They know their roles

Kate Middleton "Mirrors" Prince Philip In This Way

Kate Middleton shares similarities with her grandfather in-law, Prince Philip, according to royal experts. Learn the specific ways that she "mirrors" him in her relationship with Prince William, the future King.

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At first glance, 99-year-old Prince Philip and his granddaughter in-law Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, may appear rather unalike.

But royal experts have noted some clear similarities between the pair as part of the Duchess's July 6th cover story in People magazine.

Of course, Duchess Kate projects to be future Queen once her husband Prince William becomes King. The Duke of Edinburgh currently serves the same role of support to Queen Elizabeth II and has done so for her 69-year reign.

Kate Middleton's conduct "mirrors" Prince Philip's

But, beyond sharing this position of support, experts have observed that Kate's conduct "mirrors" that of Prince Philip in several ways.

Royal author Sarah Gristwood sees similarities in the nature of the Cambridges' marriage and the Queen and Prince Philip's.

"In one sense [Kate] and William's was a modern royal marriage, in that it was a love match," Gristwood began to tell People. "But in another it has been old-fashioned. She mostly appears as a supportive figure to her husband."

"She's never trying to outshine [Prince William] in any way," Penny Junor, a royal biographer, added.

"I think that Kate is a bit like Prince Philip supporting the Queen. She doesn't outshine William but still has a lot to say herself."

Duchess Catherine can "step up" solo as well

All the same, Kate has spearheaded numerous well-received charity efforts and serves as patron to various arts, children's, and health organizations.

"Catherine is the sort of woman who will take on whatever she needs to," another source told People. "If she needs to step up to the plate, she does it—and she always has. She and William are a formidable team."

The Duchess has carved out an important role for herself with the royal family, all while establishing this "formidable" partnership with the future King.