Prince William took to the skies in a helicopter during a landmark first visit to the 4 Regiment Army Air Corps (AAC) base at Wattisham.
The Prince of Wales became Colonel-in-Chief of the AAC in May 2024, when the King officially handed over the role at the Army Aviation Centre in Middle Wallop.
The Army Air Corps is the combat aviation arm of the British Army, formed in 1957 on the foundations of the Glider Pilot Regiment and the Air Observation Post Squadron.
William arrived at the base in a Wildcat reconnaissance helicopter, a call back to his service as a RAF search and rescue pilot.
Prince William took to the skies in a helicopter during his visit to the Army Air Corps.
PA
He was pictured in the helicopter’s cockpit, immersed in the controls of the aircraft.
William wore full military gear suitable for the role, including a flight helmet and fatigues.
The royal’s visit was not all flying as he later toured the Wattisham base and was introduced to the operations of the AAC.
After exiting the craft, he ditched the flight gear for the AAC’s distinctive blue beret.
William made his first visit to the AAC's Wattisham base as the regiments Colonel-in-Chief.
PA
William was informed of 664 Squadron's operational lessons from overseas tours.
Over the past 12 months, AAC squadrons have been deployed to Norway, Finland, Sweden, Estonia, and Germany.
Soldiers also shared how they are adapting to the new capabilities of the recently acquired Apache AH-64E.
The Prince then observed a combat PT session, which will illustrate the requirement for physical and mental robustness within the AAC as well as the need to develop team skills including problem-solving, communication, and leadership.
After touching down, William toured the base and met with AAC personnel.
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William also joined the regiment for an “Archer's Breakfast” - a weekly social event held by 664 Squadron for its personnel and their families.
The ritual was attended by soldiers who had been deployed overseas as well as those who have recently joined the unit.
The visit concluded with The Prince presenting a King's Commendation for Valuable Service as well as awarding soldiers their promotion from Corporal to Sergeant.
The Army Air Corps is made up of several regiments, with locations in Hampshire, Shropshire, Somerset and Suffolk where soldiers train in the UK skies in readiness for combat operations across the world.
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William was given command of the regiment by King Charles in 2024.
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The engagement marked Prince William's first royal duties after spending last week's half-term break with his children.
The Prince and Princess of Wales did not undertake any engagements last week as their children were off school.
Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis returned to school this week.
The young royals are expected to join their parents and King Charles for Trooping the Colour later this month.
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