The King visits the Royal Regiment of Artillery in Larkhill

Published

The King is the Ceremonial Head of the Royal Artillery and holds the title of Captain General, which was first taken by King George VI in 1947 and subsequently by Queen Elizabeth II from 1952.

The King fires a L118 Light Gun at Larkhill

The King, on his debut visit to the Royal Regiment of Artillery, met military personnel from the 21 regiments that form the Royal Regiment to hear about their training and viewed a selection of ‘Find and Strike’ equipment.

In the Officers Mess, The King met a variety of soldiers and heard about the Royal Artillery’s institution and heritage. His Majesty was shown artillery uniform of his ancestor King George V in the regimental museum.

The King views the artillery uniform of his ancestor King George V
King George V's Tunic

The Royal Regiment of Artillery was founded in 1716 and is believed to have served in every conflict the British Army has been involved with. The 14 regular regiments and 7 reserve regiments are also known as the ‘Gunners’.

Outside, His Majesty viewed equipment used by the Regiment, including drones, the Royal Artillery's new gun "The Archer", the multiple launch rocket system (MLRS), and the L118 Light Gun, which His Majesty fired. 

The King speaks to soldiers next to the multiple launch rocket system (MLRS)

To commemorate The King’s first visit as Captain General, His Majesty was presented with an engraved 105mm Cartridge which was fired during Their Majesties' Coronation as a gift from the Royal Regiment.

The King receives an engraved brass shell casing from an artillery round fired during his Coronation

Before departing, His Majesty took time to meet families of serving soldiers.

The King meets family members of service personnel

Related content

A speech by His Majesty The King at the Lord High Admiral’s Divisions Parade, Britannia Royal Naval College, Dartmouth

My own service taught me that leadership is not about rank; it is, and has always been, about character. It is about making sound decisions under pressure, holding firm to our...

19 December 2025
News

80th Anniversary of VJ Day

15 August 2025
VJ Day

A message from His Majesty The King on the 80th Anniversary of VJ Day

In recalling so much suffering, we must not lose sight of how great was the cause and how sweet the victory. For those heroes of V.J. Day gave us more than freedom; they left...

15 August 2025

Remarks by His Majesty The King at the 42 Torpedo Bomber Squadron Stand Up Parade at RAF Lossiemouth

The Squadron Standard, which we honour today and was last presented to you by my Father, is a symbol of your illustrious heritage and a testament to the sacrifices and...

06 August 2025

An address by The King at the Presentation of New Colours to the Coldstream Guards in their 375th year, Windsor Castle

Over the many wars and countless heroic actions of the Regiment, these Colours, encompassing your richly-deserved battle honours, are a gallant testament to the outstanding...

13 June 2025

Remarks by His Majesty The King at the Presentation of Union Standards to The Household Cavalry, Windsor Castle

Even while you perpetually produce the highest standards of ceremonial magnificence, you remain at the same time a most impressive array of soldiers whose core role, and most...

12 May 2025

A speech delivered by The King during a visit to HMS Prince of Wales whilst at sea

I can only say that I take immense pride in you - the men and women who bring this vessel to life with such indomitable spirit - for your vital service on behalf of us all.

04 March 2025

A speech by The King at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines in Lympstone, Devon

It is this operational excellence, underpinned by your unique skillset and training, which will ensure that all of you, as Royal Marines, will help to perpetuate our peace and...

15 November 2024

Remarks by The King at Presentation of New Colours, Number Nine Company, Second Battalion, The Irish Guards

Every guardsman standing here today is thus the Heir and Successor to the great legacy, the historic customs and fine traditions of your forebears within the Battalion.

10 June 2024
Feature

The 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings

Members of the Royal Family will remember the sacrifices made during the Allied landings
The King and Queen with President and Madame Macron
Feature

Remembrance 2016

The Queen and the Royal Family attend engagements to mark Remembrance 2016
Press release 18 July 2015

Events to mark the anniversary of VJ Day

Read more
Press release 06 March 2015

Gallipoli Centenary Commemorations

Read more
Press release 01 February 2015

Royal family attendance at Afghanistan service

Read more
Press release 01 April 2014

WW1 Centenary Commemorations

Read more
Press release 08 August 2006

New Royal Navy patronages 2006

Read more

State Visit, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil, 7 March 2006

I have vivid and happy memories of my visit to Brazil with Prince Philip in 1968, especially the warmth and hospitality of the Brazilian people.

07 March 2006
Press release 26 May 2004

Official ceremonies to commemorate D-Day

Read more