Senior military officer and former commander of UK Special Forces Gwyn Jenkins has been appointed as the new head of the Royal Navy.
He assumes the role of First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff, following the removal of admiral Sir Ben Key, reported BBC News.
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Key was reportedly dismissed while under investigation concerning allegations of misconduct. He was scheduled to retire from his role this summer, having served as the leader of the Royal Navy since 2021.
The UK Ministry of Defence did not give away details for the departure but cited “private reasons”.
UK Defence Secretary John Healey said: “I warmly congratulate general Sir Gwyn Jenkins on his selection as the next First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff. As the first Royal Marine appointed to the role, this is a hugely significant moment for the Royal Navy.
“General Jenkins is a proven leader with a distinguished career in both the military and at the core of government. I know he will deliver in this pivotal role, making Britain secure at home and strong abroad.”
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By GlobalDataJenkins joined the Royal Marines in 1990, serving early in the Commando Logistics Regiment and deploying to Northern Ireland with 42 Commando.
He later became a Lieutenant Colonel overseeing global operations, then a Commanding Officer in 2009.
Following senior roles in the Cabinet Office and command of 3 Commando Brigade, Jenkins was promoted to Major General in 2019. He later held top roles in the Royal Navy and a tri-service unit.
Since 2022, he has served as vice chief of the defence staff. In 2024, he became strategic advisor to the Defence Secretary, helping shape UK partnerships with Germany and Norway.
Jenkins said: “Throughout my career, I have always been motivated by the vital role the Royal Navy has in keeping our nation safe. To do that now, we need to accelerate our return to a war fighting force that is ready for conflict, expand our modernisation efforts and deliver the Royal Navy our nation needs.”
