The British Army’s newest regiment has reached a major milestone, as soldiers of the King’s Gurkha Artillery (KGA) fired the L118 Light Gun for the very first time during training in Brecon.
Formed earlier this year as part of the Royal Artillery, the KGA is made up of Gurkhas drawn from across the Army. Many transferred from infantry, engineer, signals and logistics roles, some with decades of service, but all were required to retrain as gunners from scratch.
Historic first shots
After weeks of instruction, the Gurkhas took part in Exercise Combined Warrior, a large-scale exercise held three times a year that brings together infantry, engineers and artillery to test their skills in demanding field conditions.
This was the first occasion that Gurkhas had participated as artillerymen, with two KGA soldiers attached to each gun detachment alongside experienced gunners. Tasks included digging gun pits, defending positions, countering simulated drone and artillery fire, and responding to battlefield casualties.
For many, however, the highlight was pulling the lanyard on the Light Gun.
Sergeant Bishawaraj Rai said: “When you fire it, you want to fire more and more. I used to move around with small rifles. Now I move with big guns.”
Bombardier Rajkar Budhathoki admitted some nerves before firing, but added: “I felt the power, like this is what I’m here for.”
Bombardier Alan Thapa described the shock of live firing: “I really didn’t expect that much recoil, and also the sound. We needed double ear protection… but what a moment to be alive!”
Praise from trainers
The Gurkhas’ enthusiasm and determination impressed their instructors.
WO2 Lee Barnes, battery trainer, said: “They’re doing absolutely fantastic. Some of them have been in it for 20 years, but they’ve got stuck in, gone on stag, learned from the more experienced guys. They just want to perfect their drills and be the best.”
Bombardier Ryan Fillingham echoed the praise, adding: “The Gurkhas are very keen. If you’re doing anything on the gun they’re straight over, and I can’t wait to see what they do in the future.”
Looking ahead
Once training is complete, the KGA will operate its own fully-manned “Gurkha gun” detachments, cementing its place in the Royal Artillery.
Sergeant Rai summed up the ambition within the regiment: “I want to make history, be a pathfinder. Firing those live rounds… it’s the best thing I’ve done.”
The regiment’s first live fire marks an important step in its journey, and a sign of its growing role in the future of the British Army’s artillery.
