Royal funerals are meticulously planned years in advance due to the complexity and scale of such state events. The late Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral in 2022 was conducted under the codename Operation London Bridge, with each member of the royal family assigned a unique bridge-themed designation.
In his latest book, Charles III: New King. New Court. The Inside Story, royal biographer Robert Hardman reveals recent updates to these codenames for future royal funerals.
Hardman explained, “For large-scale events involving thousands of troops, extensive police presence, multiple services, and media coverage, comprehensive planning is essential.” He noted that planning for Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral began over two decades ago under the codename Operation London Bridge, a title given by the Duke of Norfolk.
Each family member’s funeral was assigned a different bridge designation: for instance, the Queen Mother’s was Operation Tay Bridge, and Charles (as Prince of Wales) was Operation Menai Bridge, referencing the bridge between Anglesey and Wales.
According to Hardman, this naming process continues, with King Charles’ codename remaining Operation London Bridge and Prince William’s shifting from Operation Clare Bridge (named for a bridge in Cambridge when he was Duke of Cambridge) to Operation Menai Bridge, aligning with his father’s title.
Additionally, Hardman shared that for Prince William’s family, the codenames will follow a similar pattern: Kate Middleton and their three children will be referred to as Menai I, Menai II, and Menai III, respectively.
In the updated edition of his biography, Hardman also touches on other royal matters, including insights into the late Queen’s diaries and the potential for King Charles to reconcile with his youngest son, Prince Harry, in the future.
