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Prince Harry to train as an Apache pilot
7th May 2010
Prince Harry has been selected to train on the Apache Attack Helicopter following the successful completion of his Army Pilots Course. The decision has been taken by Army Air Corps commanders who judged that Prince Harry’s skills and flying abilities best suited the Apache helicopter.
Prince Harry is delighted to be selected for Apache because of its formidable operational role.
Prince Harry will be presented with his Provisional Wings today by his father, The Prince of Wales, as he graduates from his Army Pilots Course.
Prince Harry said:
“It is a huge honour to have the chance to train on the Apache, which is an awesome helicopter. There is still a huge mountain for me to climb if I am to pass the Apache training course. To be honest, I think it will be one of the biggest challenges in my life so far. I am very determined, though, as I do not want to let down people who have shown faith in my ability to fly this aircraft on operations. It is a seriously daunting prospect but I can’t wait.”
Notes to Editors
The Prince will begin the Apache training course in July at Middle Wallop, where he will remain for approximately eight months. Following the training course, The Prince will join one of the Apache Regiments for further training, which will last approximately eight to nine months.
The Apache AH Mark One fleet consist of 67 aircraft and a number of these are deployed very successfully in Afghanistan in support of UK and Coalition forces. Its primary role in Afghanistan is to provide ‘top cover’ to Chinook helicopters.
The Apache attack helicopter is designed to hunt and destroy armoured vehicles. Apache can operate in all weathers, day and night, and can detect, classify and prioritise up to 256 potential targets in seconds through its Fire Control Radar. It carries a mix of weapons, including rockets, Hellfire missiles and a 30mm chain gun.
The Apache is based with 3 and 4 Regiments Army Air Corps at Wattisham Airfield in Suffolk.