The Royal Navy has made James Bond star Daniel Craig an honorary Commander, matching his on-screen rank in the upcoming James Bond film.
“Commander Craig’s appointment as an honorary officer reflects his personal support for UK armed forces and links it with the legacy created through the guise of the fictional British secret agent,” the Royal Navy said.
Honorary officers in the Royal Navy contribute in their own distinct way to strengthen the navy’s ties with the communities it serves. Commander Craig is keen to support personnel within the Royal Navy, with a particular interest in service families.
The announcement comes ahead of the premiere of the newest Bond instalment No Time to Die.
Filmmakers worked closely with the Royal Navy and Ministry of Defence in the production of the latest film in the franchise.
Type 45 destroyer HMS Dragon features in the movie with her red dragon emblem on the hull, seen cutting through the waves in the latest trailer.
“I am truly privileged and honored to be appointed the rank of Honorary Commander in the senior service,” Commander Craig said.
“Our honorary officers act as ambassadors and advocates for the service, sharing their time and expertise to spread the message about what our global, modern, and ready Royal Navy is doing around the world,” First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Tony Radakin added.
“Daniel Craig is well known for being Commander Bond for the last fifteen years – a naval officer who keeps Britain safe through missions across the globe.
“That’s what the real Royal Navy does every day, using technology and skill the same way as Bond himself.
“I look forward to him getting to see more of our sailors and marines over the coming months and years.”
As well as HMS Dragon making an appearance, the Royal Air Force also granted access to key assets and personnel. RAF Brize Norton, in Oxfordshire, was used as a backdrop in the film, standing in for a NATO airbase in Norway where Bond joins MI6 allies and later boards a C-17 Globemaster.
Meanwhile, the Army supplied troops from the Household Cavalry. They offered their time at a pivotal moment in their calendar, just before the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.
