King Charles III is visiting Thorney Island today in his role as Captain General of the Royal Regiment of Artillery, marking his first visit to the 7th Air Defence Group Royal Artillery.
The visit is taking place at Baker Barracks, near Emsworth in Hampshire, where His Majesty will be given an immersive operational air defence demonstration. The Ministry of Defence says the display will showcase the unit’s roles, capabilities and its contribution to the defence of the UK and its allies.
Also known as the Gunners, the Royal Artillery is made up of 14 regular regiments and seven reserve regiments, providing the British Army with its eyes, ears and firepower. Using high-tech surveillance systems and uncrewed aircraft, personnel locate and monitor potential threats before responding through the coordinated use of guns, rockets and missiles. These operations can also involve Army attack helicopters, fast jets and, in some cases, the guns of Royal Navy vessels.
During the visit, the King will see demonstrations of the Group’s short-range and medium-range air defence systems and meet the service personnel responsible for operating the equipment. He will hear first-hand about their work and the challenges involved in protecting airspace in an increasingly complex security environment.
His Majesty will also officially open the new Junior Ranks’ Restaurant at the barracks. Inside, he will meet families of deployed personnel, as well as soldiers currently on operations via a live video link. The visit will also include meetings with members of the Commonwealth community and representatives of different faith groups based on the island.
Following the opening, the King will spend time greeting other families from Thorney Island before being driven through the community as part of a street-party-style welcome, bringing the visit to a close.
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