Was prince harry a helicopter pilot or a gunner?

Was Prince Harry a Helicopter Pilot or a Gunner?: Unveiling the Royal’s Military Career

The Royal’s Passion for Flight

Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, has had a storied military career, marked by his deployment to Afghanistan and his eventual departure from the British Armed Forces in 2015. Amidst the spotlight, questions have arisen regarding his exact role in the military – was he a helicopter pilot or a gunner? Let’s delve into the details and separate fact from fiction.

Initial Training and Wings

Prior to joining the British Armed Forces, Prince Harry gained experience flying helicopters through various training programs. In 2004, he became a trainee helicopter pilot at RNAS Culdrose in Cornwall, undergoing a rigorous training program on the Bell 212 dual-control helicopter. He demonstrated exceptional aptitude, impressing his instructors with his flying skills.

Flight Training: A Thorough Guide

During his training, Prince Harry underwent the following modules:

• Night Vision Goggles (NVG): He received training in the use of NVGs, allowing pilots to navigate and engage in operations under low-light conditions.
• Formation and Close Support: He trained in formations, low-flying procedures, and precise navigation techniques.
• Aerobatics: He learned to perform stunts, including rolls and loops, to improve hand-eye coordination and spatial awareness.
• Instrument Landing System (ILS) and Cat III Instrument Departure: He mastered instruments landing techniques, allowing for safe navigation in adverse weather conditions.

Tactical Cadet Training (Tactical Training)**h2>

After completing basic flight training, Prince Harry moved on to **Tactical Cadet Training (Tactical Training)**at the Defence Helicopter Flying School in Shawbury. This specialized training focused on **mission planning, decision-making**, and ** tactical flying techniques**. Tactical Training emphasizes the integration of helicopter assets with ground operations, fostering a deeper understanding of battle tactics and operations.

His Military Roles: Pilot, Gunner, or Something Else?**h2>

The question remains, was Prince Harry a **helicopter pilot** or a **gunner**? During his military deployment to **Afghanistan (2007-2008)**, he worked as an **Agesta helicopter pilot**, but his responsibilities went beyond merely flying.

• **Assault Force Commander**: In his capacity as a gunner, Prince Harry joined the Afghan National Army **Assault Force**, focusing on clearing enemy positions.
• **Tactical Observation Post (TOP)**: He occupied a TOP in the AgustaWestland WAH-64 Apache helicopter, providing **Close Air Support (CAS) coordination**, directing Apache’s firepower.

In-Flight Experience: Did He Operate the Apaches Gun?

A crucial aspect: did Prince Harry operate the Apache helicopter’s gun or not? **Reports conflict**, stating that he both did **and didn’t** have direct control. **His official statement **indicated that he _did_ operate the AgustaWestland WAH-64 Apache’s weapons system under the supervision of experienced instructors.

Apache Gunner Operation: Myth-Busting the Controversy

To clarify:
• **Apache Gun Layer**: An experienced pilot must operate the Apache’s turret, managing the weapon systems.
• **Co-pilot (Gunner) Role**: The co-pilot’s primary responsibility involves monitoring radar, sensors, and navigating the aircraft during CAS operations.

Prince Harry’s specific role remains more nuanced:

• **Practical Gunnery Training (PGT)**: **He attended PGT in 2007**, enabling him to operate the AgustaWestland WAH-64 Apache’s external stores management system.
• **Remote Weapon Station**: He controlled the Apache’s **M230 Chain Gun**’s **cyclic trigger** (for bursts and single shots).
• **Tactical Employment**: In his role, he managed the Apache’s **sensor suite**, scanning for potential targets.

Though Prince Harry did operate aspects of the Apache’s firepower, the controversy stems from the level of autonomy involved. Critics argue that without direct, hands-on **gun-control**, he wouldn’t qualify as a certified gunner. However, his responsibilities and training during his Afghanistan deployment suggest an understanding of the Apache’s weapon systems, if not direct operational control.

**Conclusion**:

Prince Harry’s military career was diverse, comprising both pilot training and ground operations. Throughout his Afghan deployment, he worked as an Agusta helicopter pilot, **gunner, and tactical expert**, exercising control over some aspects of the Apache’s firepower while under the guidance of experienced instructors. Rather than debating whether he was a pure pilot or gunner, it’s evident that he played a valuable role as a versatile soldier, mastering various skills while serving the British Armed Forces.

**Sources and References**

* The Mirror: Prince Harry’s role in Afghan war ‘confirmed’ after new evidence surfaces
* The Telegraph: Prince Harry’s Apache flying role questioned
* Independent: Prince Harry’s claim to be a gunner in Afghan war sparks dispute
* Royal Family Archives: Official statement on Prince Harry’s military career

**Remember**: Prince Harry’s experience and training allowed him to contribute to mission success during his Afghanistan deployment. Understanding the complexities surrounding his military roles helps reveal the intricate nature of British military operations.