Princess Margaret's grandson takes on major royal milestone for the first time since the '80s

Princess Margaret's son Arthur Robert Nathaniel Chatto, 22, is set to be the latest Royal Marines' officer recruit since Prince Edward famously abandoned the train in 1986.

Queen Elizabeth's grand nephew will undertake 32 weeks of intense training, widely regarded as one of the most rigorous programmes worldwide.

The youngest son of Daniel and Lady Sarah Chatto will become the first member of the extended royal family to join the royal marines upon completion.

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Prince Edward quit the training program a third of the way in, with the course expecting participants to be in "the best condition of your life," as per Express UK.

Princess Margaret's grandson, whose now-defunct social media presence has been the source of speculation for years, has sparked commentary over his physical compatibility for the program.

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The young royal previously sent fans into a frenzy, after sharing shirtless images of himself, featuring a sculpted, muscular physique.

Arthur, who currently studies geography at the University of Edinburgh, has reportedly been working as a personal trainer in the Scottish capital at the BoundFItness gym.

According to the gym's website, they specialise in "strength and endurance training with a military focus."

Edinburgh Live reported the 29th in line to the throne runs outdoor classes and bootcamp sessions starting at £16 (approx $30)a month for fellow students.

Chatto has previously been celebrated for his high-endurance sporting achievements.

In 2020, the royal completed a 42-day expedition, spanning a 3220km non-stop rowing trip around the UK with three friends.

READ MORE: Princess Margaret's grandsons post shirtless summer photos

Additionally, Chatto has completed 32-kilometres hikes in the Scottish Highlands while visiting the Queen during the summer, The Sun reports.

An insider told the publication Her Majesty is "pleased and proud" of her grand nephew's move to attempt the training course.

They reported Prince Edward has also "been very supportive" of the move.

Chatto follows in similar footsteps of members of the royal family.

While there have been no Marines officers, the late Duke of Edinburgh served as Captain General of the Royal Marines, before being succeeded by grandson Prince Harry.

The Duke of Sussex was forced to give up the title after stepping down as a member of the senior royal family.

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