Daniel Craig named an honorary Commander in the Royal Navy - the same rank as James Bond

James Bond actor Daniel Craig has been made an honorary Commander in the Royal Navy.

After more than a decade playing the world’s most famous secret agent, Craig now shares another thing with Bond - the military rank of commander.

Craig’s appointment to the rank – the same as that of his on-screen spy persona – reflects his personal support for UK armed forces.

It also links it with the legacy created through the guise of the fictional British secret agent.

Ahead of the premiere of his latest film No Time To Die on Tuesday, Craig said: “I am truly privileged and honoured to be appointed the rank of honorary commander in the senior service.”

Navy warship HMS Dragon features in the movie.

During production for No Time To Die, filmmakers worked closely with the Royal Navy and Ministry of Defence.

As well as HMS Dragon’s cameo, the RAF Brize Norton base in Oxfordshire was used as a backdrop in the film.

It stood in for a Nato airbase in Norway where Bond joins MI6 allies and later boards a C-17 Globemaster.

Meanwhile, the Army supplied troops from the Household Cavalry.

They offered their time at a pivotal moment in their calendar, just before the Changing the Guard at Buckingham Palace.

First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said: “I am delighted to welcome honorary commander Mr Craig to the Royal Navy.

“Our honorary officers act as ambassadors and advocates for the service, sharing their time and expertise to spread the message about what our global, modern and ready Royal Navy is doing around the world.

“Mr Craig is well known for being Commander Bond for the last 15 years – a naval officer who keeps Britain safe through missions across the globe.

“That’s what the real Royal Navy does every day, using technology and skill the same way as Bond himself.

“I look forward to him getting to see more of our sailors and marines over the coming months and years.”

The actor first played 007 in 2006’s Casino Royale. No Time To Die is his last Bond movie.

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