Andrew served as a helicopter warfare officer in 702 Naval Air Squadron, RNAS Portland.

In February 1987, Prince Andrew, Duke of York, commenced his appointment as a Helicopter Warfare Officer with 702 Naval Air Squadron (NAS) at Royal Naval Air Station Portland, known as HMS Osprey. The posting formed part of his continued progression within the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm, focusing on advanced operational training following his earlier service as a helicopter pilot. At 702 NAS, Prince Andrew trained in the tactical use of the Westland Lynx helicopter, with emphasis on anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare operations. The squadron was responsible for preparing aircrew assigned to the Small Ships Flight, supporting Royal Navy vessels in operational deployments. His work during this period involved refining combat flying techniques, navigation, and coordination with naval units in maritime environments. RNAS Portland served as the primary training base for Lynx helicopter operations, providing specialized instruction for naval aviation personnel. During his time there, Prince Andrew held the rank of Lieutenant, which he had attained in 1984, and continued to build on the experience he had gained after qualifying as a pilot in 1981 and serving during the Falklands War. The 1987 appointment represented a focused period of advanced training within his naval aviation career, preparing him for subsequent roles that combined both aviation and seagoing responsibilities in the Royal Navy. #PrinceAndrew #RoyalNavy #FleetAirArm #HelicopterPilot #NavalAviation