Tensions within the royal family have reached new heights as the Prince of Wales is handed the reins of the army air corps by the King, leaving the Duke feeling sidelined.
Recent official events attended by the King and the Prince of Wales have solidified the latter’s position as the future leader of the monarchy.
A source close to the royal family revealed to the Daily Beast that the Duke has been dealt a blow by the Prince of Wales, who has effectively promoted him to the role of Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps.
In a significant ceremony, the King officially passed on the command of the army’s airborne division to the Prince of Wales, who arrived at the event via helicopter.
This regiment holds deep personal significance for the Duke, who previously served in Afghanistan flying Apaches for the Air Corps.
Speculation had been rife that the Duke, owing to his connections with the regiment, might be appointed as its patron.
However, these hopes were dashed in 2020 when Harry relinquished his official royal duties, with Princess Catherine later assuming the role.
The recent announcement formalizing the transfer of power mirrors the Duke of Sussex’s revelation that his father declined to meet him during his UK visit due to a busy schedule.
The Prince of Wales is set to succeed the King as Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps at the Army Aviation Centre in Middle Wallop.
This appointment was among several military promotions made by the King in August 2023 following his ascension to the throne, a position he had held for 31 years during his time as the Prince of Wales.
Duncan Larkham, a former Royal Editor of the Sun, expressed in his biography of the Duke that the Prince of Wales taking over leadership of the Duke’s former regiment is a bitter pill to swallow for him.
Larkham noted the significance of this move, highlighting that it must have stung the Duke as it was one of his few remaining strong ties within the royal fold.
The recent events, where the King went to great lengths to avoid being seen with the Duke, starkly contrast with the public display of unity between the Prince of Wales and his father.
Renowned royal author Robert Hardman shared insights into the situation, revealing that the Prince of Wales harbors concerns about the Duke’s upcoming second book potentially unveiling more secrets.
Lingering tensions persist within the family, with many still reeling from the revelations made in the Duke’s previous book, with the Prince of Wales notably affected.
The unresolved trust issues continue to cast a shadow over the royal household, hinting at deeper rifts yet to be fully addressed.