King Charles Visits Royal Tank Regiment at Bovington
King Charles took a ride in a British Army tank during his inaugural visit to the Royal Tank Regiment (RTR) since assuming the role of Colonel-in-Chief.
He arrived at The Tank Museum in Bovington, Dorset, aboard a 1920 Pattern Rolls-Royce armoured car as part of the centre's families' day, an event dedicated to the relatives of the regiment's personnel.
The same vehicle was used by the late Queen during her 1997 visit to the museum, which marked the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Cambrai.
"Very slow," the King joked when asked about the armoured car.
Assuming Colonel-in-Chief Role
King Charles succeeded his mother as head of the regiment in 2023 following her passing.
During his visit, he toured the museum, including the Tank Story Hall, where staff detailed the history and significance of tanks from the First World War to the present day.
He also met with four former Colonels-Commandant of the RTR, each having served as ceremonial heads of the regiment.
Presentation of Medals and Meeting Families
Outside, the King presented medals to soldiers on parade. These included wider service medals for Operation Cabrit in Estonia, long service and good conduct medals, as well as commendations.
He also took the opportunity to meet with family members of the regiment.
Inspection of New Technology and Tank Ride
The King inspected a Challenger 3 tank, the British Army's newest battle tank, before being shown the latest technological advancements employed by the regiment. These included 3D-printed equipment and search and attack drones.
Wearing a crew guard helmet and seated in the commander's seat, King Charles was then taken for a ride around the museum's arena in a Challenger 2 tank.
