On Tuesday, 1st October, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal visited Viking Arms, a key supplier of defence equipment to the UK’s police forces and military. During her visit, The Princess Royal officially opened Viking Arms’ newly constructed warehouse facility, toured the company’s cutting-edge premises, and met with staff to learn more about their vital role in supporting the UK’s defence industry.
Her Royal Highness was warmly welcomed by Managing Director Sam Macarthur, alongside members of the company’s founding family. The visit commenced with a detailed presentation about Viking Arms’ operations. Viking Arms specialises in supplying and distributing advanced defence technology to UK police, military, and other security services. The company also provides expert training in firearms use and education on defence equipment.
The Princess Royal was given an exclusive tour of Viking Arms’ new licensed warehouse, a facility designed for the secure storage of firearms, ammunition, and section 5 prohibited weapons. Her Royal Highness was shown a selection of advanced technologies, including the SMASH Smart Weapon Sight Fire Control System and Flex Force’s DroneBuster technology. These innovations are essential for improving the capabilities of the British military in handling Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), with the SMASH system already in use by Very High Readiness units across the British Military. The DroneBuster, a handheld electronic attack device, is approved by the U.S. Department of Defense and further enhances Viking Arms’ reputation for distributing world-leading technology.
As part of the day’s events, Her Royal Highness participated in a live demonstration alongside Viking Arms’ Glock armourer and specialist firearms trainer, Rich Fell. This demonstration involved the disassembly of the Glock 17 Gen 4, the standard sidearm used by British Armed Forces since 2013. The session allowed The Princess Royal to gain insight into the technical expertise and precision required in maintaining and operating essential military equipment.
Throughout the visit, The Princess Royal engaged with Viking Arms’ staff from a range of departments. She discussed the company’s role in meeting the evolving needs of the UK defence sector and its commitment to working closely with end-users such as the police and military. These close relationships enable Viking Arms to influence the design and functionality of many of the products it supplies, ensuring the best possible outcomes for the people who rely on the equipment.
As part of the ceremony to open the new warehouse, The Princess Royal also presented an award to Janet Dinsdale, a long-serving employee of Viking Arms who has dedicated 47 years to the company. Her Royal Highness acknowledged Janet’s extraordinary service and commitment, marking the highlight of the visit.
The day concluded with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque, marking the special occasion. Managing Director Sam Macarthur expressed her pride in the royal visit, stating, We were honoured to welcome Her Royal Highness to Viking Arms. It was a privilege to share our journey with her, and she showed a genuine interest in how we support the British military and police. We are incredibly grateful for her visit and her recognition of the work we do.
