What is 'Operation Unicorn' planned before Queen Elizabeth II's death? Here’s all you may want to know

Queen Elizabeth II passed away last week. Immediately after the Queen's demise, the "Operation Unicorn" was activated. The British government had already prepared for "Operation Unicorn," even before the death of the Queen. The operation, which was to come into force in case Queen Elizabeth II died in Scotland. It was also named after the national animal of Scotland.

Some preparations under "Operation Unicorn" had begun even before the official announcement of the Queen's death. Meanwhile, BBC presenters wore black dresses as part of "Operation London Bridge."

According to one official memo, the code through which the message of the Queen's death should be conveyed is "London bridge is down." Once the code is relayed, a security operation would take place to control crowds. As per the documents which Politico saw, the Royal Family will now make an announcement regarding the plans for the funeral of the Queen.


Notably, Thursday, the day of the Queen's death, would be referred to as "D-Day," and the following days will be called "D+1," "D+2," "D+3," and so on till the tenth day of her death. After the tenth day, British Prime Minister Liz Truss would be the government's first official to make a statement in this regard. Besides the prime minister, some other government members will also make a statement. All saluting stations will also arrange gun salutes. Subsequently, King Charles will deliver a national broadcast, and the British PM will hold an audience with the new king.
Meanwhile, the funeral will take place at Westminster Abbey, and the committal service will also be held at Windsor Castle. After that, the Queen will be buried in the King George VI Memorial Chapel. Queen Elizabeth was born in 1926 in London.

FAQs:

1). What is Operation Unicorn?
The British government planned Operation Unicorn. The operation needed to be activated in case of the Queen's death in Scotland.

2). What does the "London bridge is down" mean?
"London bridge is down" is the code through which the message of the Queen's death was to be conveyed.