HRH Prince William visited the 4 Regiment Army Air Corps marking his inaugural engagement as Colonel-in-Chief
On June 4, 2025, Prince William visited the 4 Regiment Army Air Corps at Wattisham Flying Station, marking his inaugural engagement as Colonel-in-Chief, a role he assumed in May 2024 following King Charles III’s 31-year tenure. The British Army’s combat aviation branch, the AAC is distinguished by its iconic blue berets and comprises multiple specialised regiments. This visit highlighted the Army Air Corps’ critical contributions to military operations, which include advanced aerial capabilities such as reconnaissance, tactical transport, and attack missions.
Equipped with cutting-edge Apache AH-64E helicopters, the corps supports swift troop deployments, vital supply deliveries, and real-time intelligence, emphasising agility, precision, and robust support for ground forces. The visit culminated in Prince William observing the integration of Apache AH-64E helicopters, underscoring his dedication to the corps’ mission and his deep understanding of the strategic importance of their work. During his visit Prince William presented a King’s Commendation for Valuable Service and awarded promotions from Corporal to Sergeant. During his visit, Prince William learned about the operational experiences of the 664 Squadron from their international missions and observed how soldiers are transitioning to using the cutting-edge Apache AH-64E, the British Army’s advanced attack helicopter.
Later on, the father-of-three watched a combat PT session, before joining the ‘Archer’s Breakfast’ which is a weekly social event held by 664 Squadron for its personnel and their families. He appeared in his element as he handed out bacon and sausage rolls to soldiers, and said that the food was “very good-smelling making my mouth water”. He added: “Nothing worse than the smell of bacon in the room and you cannot eat it”.
Prince William, who has extensive aviation experience as a former RAF search-and-rescue pilot and a trained attack helicopter pilot, brought a unique perspective to his role. His previous service included commanding life-saving missions in challenging environments, providing him with firsthand insight into the demands and importance of aerial operations.
The visit was met with excitement by the staff of the 4 Regiment Army Air Corps and the gathered crowds. Soldiers, their families, and local supporters expressed their delight at engaging with the Prince, whose approachable manner and genuine interest in their work resonated deeply. Many remarked on the significance of his visit, noting the boost in morale it provided and his understanding of their challenges as a fellow pilot. The wonderful reception underscored the strong bond between the royal family and the armed forces.
