King Charles III, who is currently undergoing treatment for cancer and has made notable progress, recently shared archival photos from his youth, showing him as a pilot in the British Royal Navy. These historical images highlight his military service and aviation experience.
An official post appeared on the Royal Family’s Instagram account featuring pictures of a young Charles. Between 1971 and 1976, the then Prince of Wales served in the military, where he trained as both a fighter pilot and a military helicopter pilot. He also served on various ships, including the missile destroyer Norfolk, and commanded the coastguard minesweeper Brownington.
Nearly 50 years ago, in 1977, while still the Prince of Wales, the King flew a Buccaneer aircraft to the HMS Ark Royal from the Royal Navy base in Yeovilton, according to the caption.
The caption also mentions that the monarch recalled his time aboard the ship HMS Prince of Wales at sea, where he saw F-35B “Lightning” fighter jets operating from the flight deck. It seems that this experience has stayed with him for many years.
These photos and memories emphasize King Charles III’s deep connection to the Royal Navy and his personal experience as a pilot.