About
The King’s Colour Squadron falls under the Combat and Readiness Force and is the RAF’s dedicated ceremonial unit, responsible for representing the RAF at both state and national ceremonial occasions, and providing Guards of Honour for the Royal Family, Heads of State, dignitaries and other VIPs.
The Royal Air Force has had a ceremonial drill unit based in Middlesex since the early 1920s. On 26 May 1951, in recognition of the achievements of the Royal Air Force, Her Royal Highness The Princess Elizabeth, acting on behalf of her Father King George VI, presented the very first Colour for the Royal Air Force in the United Kingdom to the Service. Following the subsequent coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, on the 1 November 1960 the RAF Drill Unit was re-named The Queen’s Colour Squadron of the Royal Air Force.
On the demise of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Squadron became the custodians of the King’s Colour and was renamed the King’s Colour Squadron on 27 October 2022.
The Squadron has the honour of providing the Escort Squadron whenever the Colour is paraded. Other ceremonial duties also include mounting The King’s Guard on behalf of the RAF at the London Palaces, Windsor Castle and the Tower of London.
Formed exclusively by the Officers and Gunners of the RAF Regiment, the King's Colour Squadron holds a dual role capability as a regular field squadron under 63 Squadron RAF Regiment with personnel deployed actively on Operations throughout Europe and the Middle East.
The King’s Colour Squadron is renowned for its Continuity Drill Displays and has thrilled audiences around the world including Germany, Poland, Holland, Switzerland, Canada, Australia and the United States of America. The Squadron also holds the world record for completing over 2,700,000 foot and rifle drill movements in 23 hours and 55 minutes.
Booking Enquiries
The King’s Colour Squadron can consider requests up to 12 months in advance of your engagement, therefore an early submission is recommended. Enquiries should be made through RAF Ceremonial Cell at RAF Northolt. They will present any requests to the Engagement Officer.
