In a dramatic move that signals a permanent break from his military affiliations, Prince Andrew is set to be formally stripped of his prestigious title of Honorary Vice Admiral of the Royal Navy, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps has confirmed.
The decision, expected to be implemented within days, represents the most significant demotion of the Duke of York's ceremonial military roles since he was forced to step back from public duties in 2019.
Career in Freefall
Prince Andrew, who served actively in the Royal Navy for 22 years including during the Falklands War, had been due for promotion to Admiral upon turning 60 in 2020. Instead, following the fallout from his controversial BBC Newsnight interview and subsequent civil sexual assault case, he agreed not to take up the promotion.
Now, even his current rank of Vice Admiral is being formally revoked. This marks the complete severance of the Duke's formal ties with the military establishment he once served.
Ministerial Confirmation
Defence Secretary Grant Shapps stated unequivocally that the formal process to remove Andrew's title would proceed, telling reporters: "It will happen. I can't announce the exact mechanism or the exact timing, but yes, it will happen."
The move follows Buckingham Palace's announcement in January 2022 that Andrew would be stripped of his remaining royal patronages and military affiliations, with his HRH style no longer used officially.
Broader Implications
This development represents more than just another title removal—it signifies the final detachment of a senior royal from the armed forces they once represented. The decision underscores the monarchy's ongoing efforts to distance the institution from controversies that could damage its reputation.
As one defence source noted, the removal of Andrew's naval title closes a chapter on a once-promising military career that has been overshadowed by scandal and public controversy.
