Assessment Lasted Six Hours, Included Flying, Ground Operations, Planning

Britain's Royal Family said in a news release Friday that Prince Harry has this week qualified as an Apache Aircraft Commander within 3 Regiment Army Air Corps. This qualification marks the culmination of his experience as a member of the Apache aircrew.

It follows a successful tour of Afghanistan, which was preceded by a distinguished record in training including being awarded a prize for the best Co-Pilot Gunner.

“This is a tremendous achievement for Captain Wales who passed with flying colors," said Prince Harry’s Commanding Officer, Lt. Col. Tom de la Rue. "I am delighted that his new status as a qualified Apache Aircraft Commander and Co-Pilot Gunner places him at the very top of his profession.”

Prince Harry will continue with normal duties as an Apache Pilot based at Wattisham Airfield.

During the six-hour assessment, Captain Wales was comprehensively tested in his ability to perform as an Aircraft Commander across a wide range of tactical and procedural scenarios. He was required to plan and deliver patrol orders, navigate throughout, fly in a controlled airspace and conduct a simulated attack on RAF Spadeadam, in addition to managing a number of diversions and simulated aircraft emergencies.

Prince Harry serves in 3 Regiment Army Air Corps, which is part of 16 Air Assault Brigade’s Attack Helicopter Force.

Captain Wales undertook an operational tour of Afghanistan as an Apache Pilot between September 2012 and January 2013, where he worked as part of the Joint Aviation Group (JAG) which provides helicopter support to the International Security and Assistance Force (ISAF) and Afghan forces.

(File image provided by the U.K. MoD.)

FMI: www.princeofwales.gov.uk