The Queen’s Royal Lancers

Origins

This regiment was formed in 1993 by amalgamating the 16th/5th The Queens' Royal Lancers and the 17th/21st Lancers. It was composed of four squadrons, each of which continued the traditions of one of its four antecedent regiments. Like its predecessors, the new unit was part of the Royal Armoured Corps.

Initially equipped with Challenger 1 tanks, the regiment was posted to Germany in 1993 with 4th Armoured Brigade.

Over the next decade, it also served in peacekeeping roles in Cyprus (1994-95 and 2000-01), Bosnia (1995, 1998 and 2002) and Kosovo (1999), as well taking part in training exercises in Canada and Poland.

Later deployments

In 2003, its 'B' and 'C' Squadrons deployed to Iraq during Operation Telic, equipped with Challenger 2 tanks. They were joined there by 'A' and 'D' Squadrons in 2004.

The following year saw the regiment convert to a reconnaissance role. It was re-equipped with Scimitar armoured reconnaissance vehicles and Land Rovers fitted with Weapons Mount Installation Kits.

In 2006-07, the regiment was again in Iraq, spending seven months deployed in the southern deserts.

In 2010, the Queen's Own Lancers served in Afghanistan with 4th Mechanised Brigade. It returned there in 2012-13, assisting with security and reconstruction efforts.

Legacy

In 2015, the regiment was merged with the 9th/12th Royal Lancers (Prince of Wales's) to form The Royal Lancers.