Daniel Craig appointed Honorary Royal Navy Commander

It was announced today via the official 007 channels that Daniel Craig has been made an honorary Commander in the Royal Navy.

Commander Craig’s appointment as an honorary officer reflects his personal support for HM Armed Forces and links it with the legacy created through the guise of fictional British secret agent James Bond.

While most other Bond actors wore Royal Navy uniforms in the James Bond films, Daniel Craig did not, so this is the first time we see Daniel Craig in the uniform.

Honorary Commander Daniel Craig

Honorary officers in the Royal Navy bring a breadth of experience and contribute in their own distinct way to strengthen the navy’s ties with the communities it serves. Commander Craig is keen to support personnel with the Royal Navy, with a particular interest in service families.

Commander Craig said: “I am truly privileged and honoured to be appointed the rank of Honorary Commander in the senior service.”

The rank matches that of James Bond in the films and 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.

Royal Navy in No Time To Die

It was also announced that Warship HMS Dragon will feature in the movie and a sneak preview of the distinct Type 45 destroyer, with her red dragon emblem on the hull, seen cutting through the waves in the latest trailer.

Warship HMS Dragon will feature in No Time To Die

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said: “I am delighted to welcome honorary Commander Daniel Craig to the Royal Navy. 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 and honorary Commander Daniel Craig

“Daniel Craig is well known for being Commander Bond for the last 15 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.”

*Spoiler alert*

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.