Leonor Turns 20 as an “asset” for the Monarchy, Displaying Naturalness During Military Training
As Princess Leonor approaches her 20th birthday, reports from the Spanish army highlight her naturalness and willingness to integrate wiht her peers during her intensive military training. Currently in her final year of training alongside future Army officers, the Princess is demonstrating a commitment to her duties while maintaining a relatable presence, according to observers.
Leonor’s demanding schedule at the military academy begins with breakfast at 6:30 a.m., followed by academic instruction at 7:30 a.m. Her coursework includes subjects aligned with a university degree in Industrial Institution Engineering, specifically for students in the 78th class. Morning classes conclude at 2:40 p.m., with the typical training day extending until 6:00 p.m., allowing for personal time, including dinner, provided cadets return to the academy for the night. Some days,however,training can end as early as 4:00 p.m.
The curriculum focuses on preparing future pilots, encompassing courses like Human Capabilities and Limitations Related to Flight, Air Navigation, and Flight Systems and Procedures. A important component of the training involves practical skills in “survival, evasion, resistance and extraction, basic survival and survival at sea.” Students also participate in three weekly sports sessions, including fencing and aeronautical pentathlon.
Practical flight training utilizes simulators and progresses to visual, instrument, and formation flight, culminating in piloting aircraft with proficiency and safety, including advanced maneuvers and acrobatics. The “Flight Systems and Procedures II” course comprises approximately 22 ECTS credits, equating to 550-660 hours of total work.
Recent observations reveal Princess Leonor actively engaging with her fellow students outside of training hours, enjoying casual outings to locations like bars, restaurants, and beaches. Rosa Maria Capel, a professor of Contemporary History at the Complutense University and expert on women’s history in Spain, believes this demonstrates Leonor’s ability to balance her responsibilities with the experiences of a 20-year-old.”She is a girl who lives in her world, in her society, who is clear about her responsibilities in terms of her training and duties, but who will try to make it compatible with what a 20-year-old girl would do,” Capel stated.
These observations contribute to a growing perception within the army that leonor is a valuable “asset” for the monarchy, demonstrating both dedication to her training and a grounded, approachable demeanor.
