The King enjoyed a ride in a military tank during his visit to Dorset, where he met British soldiers who had returned home to their families. Dressed in a helmet and goggles, he took a spin in a Challenger 2 tank at the Tank Museum in Bovington, delighting the spectators.
Impressed by the soldiers from the Royal Tank Regiment (RTR) who had recently come back from deployment in Greece, the King praised their demonstration at the annual Families’ Day event. This visit came shortly after a disagreement between Buckingham Palace and the Duke of Sussex over his accommodation during his UK visit.
Accompanied by soldiers from the RTR, the King arrived at the museum in a historic 1920 Pattern Rolls-Royce Armoured Car, previously used by Queen Elizabeth II. Inside the museum, which showcases various exhibitions and over 300 armored vehicles, the King engaged with former Colonels-Commandant of the RTR.
During his visit, the King humorously described the 1920 Rolls Royce as “slow,” prompting laughter from those present. He also discussed tank history with museum staff in the Tank Story Hall. Outside, he awarded medals to soldiers on parade and interacted with their families, expressing his joy at their reunions.
The King then explored the Vehicle Conservation Centre, observing frontline drone displays and the next-generation Challenger 3 Main Battle Tank of the regiment. The event concluded with the King engaging with servicemen and women, underscoring the importance of their service and sacrifice.
