Prince Harry has been awarded a 'topgun' prize on completion of his 18 month-long Apache Attack Helicopter training.

The prince, also known as Captain Wales, was handed the prize - a polished 30mm round on a stand - for being the best co-pilot gunner at a dinner marking the end of his training course.

The prince and his fellow students were congratulated by Apache Force Commander Col Neale Moss, who said they were now fully able to handle the famous attack helicopter.

The prize of best co-pilot gunner is given to the student |whose overall performance during the course is assessed as the best amongst their peer group" the Ministry of Defence said.

More than 20 students finished the course alongside the prince.

Col Neale Moss said: “The Apache course is extremely challenging teaching and testing students in their flying skills, decision making and mental agility on exercise all over the country and abroad.

"They are assessed continually to ensure that they are up to the challenge of operating one of the most sophisticated attack helicopters in the world."

“This requires composure, dedication and hard work and I congratulate all of the students as they go forward to join an operational squadron and continue to learn more in their aviation careers."

The first half of Harry's training was conducted in Hampshire, while the "major" part of the course is a two-month exercise in mountainous desert terrain in the United States, known as Crimson Eagle.

All students are required to fire live rounds in "realistic tactical scenarios" during their training, the MoD said.

Prince Harry will now be assigned to 662 Squadron, 3 Regiment Army Air Corps, where he will gain wider experience flying Apaches, the MoD said in a statement.

Above: an Apache Attack Helicopter, similar to those flown by the prince.