Prince Harry qualifies as Apache Aircraft Commander

Britain's Prince Harry is moving up in the army ranks after qualifying as an Apache Aircraft Commander.

The current third-in-line to the throne, known as Captain Wales, passed a six-hour test earlier this week (begs01Jul13) and can now take full charge of the aircraft he co-piloted during a stint in war-torn Afghanistan.

His commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Tom de la Rue, says, "This is a tremendous achievement for Captain Wales who passed with flying colors. I am delighted that his new status as a qualified Apache Aircraft Commander and Co-Pilot Gunner places him at the very top of his profession."

The prince, 28, serves in the 3 Regiment Army Air Corps of the British Army.

Prince Harry will be bumped to fourth-in-line to the throne when his brother William welcomes his first child later this month (Jul13).