From 13 to 20 June 2025, the King’s Colour Squadron, the Royal Air Force’s sole ceremonial unit, assumed public duties at the Tower of London.
The Squadron comprises of fully trained RAF Regiment Gunners and Officers, uniquely combining ceremonial precision with frontline infantry capability. During this week, their presence replaced the usual Foot Guards rotation, providing the King’s Guard, an honour traditionally held by the Household Division but extended to the Squadron in recognition of its ceremonial excellence.
The Guard’s purpose is twofold: to symbolically protect the Sovereign’s fortress and demonstrate military discipline and continuity in state ceremonial. The combination of RAF blue uniform and disciplined drill at such a historic site underscores their unique dual-role identity: ceremonial guardians that are operationally trained. Between 13–20 June, spectators at the Tower witnessed this rare display of RAF ceremonial mastery, an event mixing tradition, public duty, and operational readiness, marking a distinct moment in the Squadron’s rhythmic cycle of duties.
The King’s Colour Squadron is the RAF’s dedicated ceremonial unit, uniquely combining a prestigious ceremonial role with an operational military function. It was formed in 1960, originally titled the Queen’s Colour Squadron, to provide a permanent unit responsible for the RAF’s Sovereign’s Colour, a ceremonial standard symbolising the Monarch’s authority over the RAF. Following the accession of King Charles III in 2022, the unit was renamed The King’s Colour Squadron.
What distinguishes the Squadron is its dual identity. It is officially No. 63 Squadron RAF Regiment, a fully operational field squadron within the RAF Regiment. This means that alongside its ceremonial duties, such as mounting the King’s Guard at royal palaces, performing at state occasions, and showcasing precision drill displays, the Squadron is also trained and equipped for combat. As 63 Squadron RAF Regiment, its role is Force Protection, providing ground defence and ground combat for RAF air assets, bases, and personnel worldwide. Its members are combat-ready RAF Regiment Gunners and Officers who have deployed on operations including Iraq and Afghanistan, and support the RAF across the globe.
Currently the Squadron operationally fulfils not just its ground combat role but is one of two RAF Regiment units with the unique role of Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems. The Squadron is famed for its continuity drill, executed with exceptional precision and discipline, and is often called upon to represent the RAF at major national and international events such as military tattoos. Based at RAF Northolt, the King’s Colour Squadron remains a symbol of both the ceremonial heritage and fighting spirit of the Royal Air Force, embodying the motto of the RAF Regiment: “Per Ardua” (Through Adversity).
The King’s Colour Squadron was honoured to mount the King’s Guard at the Tower of London from 13 to 20 June 2025. As the RAF’s dedicated ceremonial unit, the Squadron proudly upholds the traditions of the Service while balancing its primary role as 63 Squadron RAF Regiment, delivering force protection for RAF operations worldwide. This occasion marks the start of a busy summer of public duties, with the Squadron representing the RAF at key national events while maintaining its operational readiness. Precision, tradition, and operational excellence, all on parade at the Sovereigns Fortress.
