For the first time in the Royal Navy’s 500-year history, a Royal Marine commando looks set to take command, that is, if King Charles gives the green light.
General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, a seasoned leader with a wealth of frontline experience, has been selected as the next First Sea Lord, beating out career admirals for the role. If approved, this appointment will mark a seismic shift in the Navy’s leadership, as an amphibious soldier, not a traditional sailor, takes the helm.
Jenkins, a former commander of the elite Special Boat Service (SBS), is no stranger to tough decisions. He made headlines for flagging concerns over allegations that SAS troops were unlawfully killing prisoners in Afghanistan. Known for his war-fighting expertise and strategic acumen, the father-of-three has also played a key role in forging defence agreements with Norway and Germany in his advisory role to Defence Secretary John Healey.
One insider described his appointment as “a remarkable comeback,” referencing how Sir Keir Starmer previously blocked Jenkins from becoming National Security Advisor last August.
“The Marines are ecstatic, they’ve effectively taken command of the Navy,” said the source. “But the admirals? Let’s just say, they’re in mourning.”
Jenkins is set to replace Admiral Sir Ben Key later this year, though it remains unclear whether he will adopt the rank of admiral upon assuming the role. Also in the running for the post was fellow Royal Marine Lt Gen Rob Magowan, alongside senior admirals Vice Admiral Martin Connell and Vice Admiral Andrew Burns.
A Royal Navy spokesperson remained tight-lipped, stating: “The process to appoint the next First Sea Lord is ongoing. All senior appointments are announced in the usual way.”
While Royal Marine commandos technically belong to the Royal Navy, their expertise lies in amphibious warfare, Arctic operations, and beach assaults rather than commanding ships. Traditionally, the First Sea Lord is drawn from career naval officers with experience leading fleets at sea.
Jenkins, who was commissioned in 1990, skyrocketed through the ranks, becoming a general in 2022, a leap that put him ahead of many peers. His selection was heavily endorsed by the Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, who had previously pushed for Jenkins to lead the Army, a move that was fiercely opposed and ultimately dismissed by Tory ministers.
Off-duty, Jenkins is an avid sailor, skier, and creative writer, interests that hint at both his adventurous spirit and strategic mind.
