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Prince William struck the ground running today when he made his first official visit as Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps, and it was everything but a desk job.
The Prince of Wales, who was appointed by King Charles in May 2024, was greeted warmly at the regiment before embarking on a busy itinerary.
William was briefed on the AAC's most recent activities, with a special emphasis on 664 Squadron's foreign operations and the game-changing capabilities of the new Apache AH-64E helicopters.
However, the visit was not limited to high-tech devices. The Prince also watched a tough combat physical training exercise, providing him firsthand knowledge of the physical and mental tenacity required of AAC soldiers.
The training demonstrated not just endurance, but also important team building abilities such as communication, leadership, and rapid thinking under duress.
According to royal sources, Prince Harry may have been considered for the coveted military position if he had stayed a senior working royal.
During his second tour of Afghanistan in 2012, the Duke of Sussex distinguished himself as an Apache helicopter commander and co-pilot gunner, earning respect within the regiment that his brother now commands.
While Harry's departure from royal duties altered the succession path for many significant patronages, today's appointment highlights William's growing responsibilities and the monarchy's emphasis on continuity.
