For the first time in its centuries-long history, the Royal Navy will be led by a Royal Marine.
General Sir Gwyn Jenkins KCB OBE RM has been appointed as the new First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff, as well as Aide-de-Camp to His Majesty, following the resignation of Admiral Sir Ben Key amid allegations of an affair with a junior colleague.
The announcement was confirmed by Defence Secretary John Healey, who described the appointment as “hugely significant.”
“I warmly congratulate General Sir Gwyn Jenkins on his selection as the next First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff,” Healey said.
“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.”
General Jenkins brings extensive operational experience to the role. He is a former Commander of the Special Boat Service (SBS), the UK’s elite maritime special forces unit, and previously served as Commandant General of the Royal Marines.
In a statement, he said the appointment was an honour and stressed the urgent need to prepare the Royal Navy for future conflict.
“I feel extremely privileged to lead the exceptional sailors and marines of the Royal Navy at this pivotal time for UK defence,” 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.”
The appointment comes at a time of growing global instability and increasing demands on the UK’s naval forces. Analysts say Jenkins’ operational background and special forces experience suggest a shift towards a more agile and combat-ready naval strategy.
