King Charles has taken a ride in a British Army tank during his first visit to the Royal Tank Regiment (RTR) since becoming Colonel-in-Chief. The event took place at the Tank Museum in Bovington, Dorset, as the centre celebrated families’ day for relatives of the regiment’s personnel.
Arrival in Historic Armoured Car
The King arrived at the museum on board a 1920 Pattern Rolls-Royce armoured car. The late Queen had arrived on the same vehicle when she visited the museum in 1997 to mark the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Cambrai. When asked later what he thought of the armoured car, the King joked: “Very slow.”
Tour of the Tank Museum
Charles was given a tour of the museum, including the Tank Story Hall, where staff explained the history and significance of tanks from the First World War up to the modern day. He also met four of the RTR’s former Colonels-Commandant, each of whom served as the ceremonial head of the regiment.
Medal Presentation and Family Meeting
Outside, the King presented medals to soldiers on parade, including wider service medals for Operation Cabrit in Estonia, long service, good conduct medals, and commendations. He also had a chance to meet family members of the regiment.
Inspection of Challenger 3 and Ride in Challenger 2
The King then inspected a Challenger 3 tank, the army’s newest battle tank. He was shown the latest technological innovations being used by the regiment, including 3D-printed equipment and search and attack drones. Wearing a crew guard helmet, Charles, sitting in the commander seat, was then taken for a ride around the museum’s arena in a Challenger 2 tank.
Charles took over the title of head of the regiment in 2023 following his mother’s death. He is Colonel-in-Chief of the Royal Tank Regiment, a role previously held by the late Queen.
