Air Marshal Harv Smyth has been appointed as the next Chief of the Air Staff and will take over leadership of the Royal Air Force in August 2025, as the UK military sharpens its focus on high-readiness operations and global deterrence.
The appointment, approved by His Majesty The King and confirmed by Defence Secretary John Healey, will see Smyth replace Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton, who is set to become Chief of the Defence Staff in September.
Smyth, a decorated Harrier pilot and senior commander, brings more than three decades of operational and strategic experience to the role. He is currently serving as Deputy Chief of the Defence Staff for Military Strategy and Operations.
Seasoned Combat Veteran to Lead RAF Modernisation
Joining the RAF in 1991, Air Marshal Smyth served 15 years as a frontline pilot and weapons instructor, flying hundreds of combat missions over the Balkans, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Since his promotion to Air Commodore in 2015, he has held senior posts across operations, capability development, and military strategy.
Speaking on his appointment, Smyth said:
“I am deeply honoured to lead the RAF at such a crucial point in our history. The Strategic Defence Review outlines the urgent need to evolve and modernise. I am immensely proud to take command of our people as we deliver world-class Air and Space Power for the UK and NATO.”
RAF Undergoing Major Transformation
The leadership transition comes as the RAF embarks on a new phase of warfighting readiness, following the government’s Strategic Defence Review. Key policy changes include the UK’s decision to participate in NATO’s nuclear mission and the purchase of 12 F-35A fighter jets, designed to bolster Britain’s rapid-response air capability.
Defence Secretary John Healey said:
“Air Marshal Harv Smyth has outstanding credentials to lead the RAF through this critical period. I also want to thank Sir Rich Knighton for his superb leadership and commitment to modernising the force.”
Maintaining a Global Footprint
The RAF remains globally deployed, with aircrews operating under Operation Shader in Iraq and Syria, conducting joint missions in Qatar, and securing NATO airspace over Eastern Europe as tensions with Russia continue.
Outgoing Chief of the Air Staff Sir Rich Knighton said:
“I am absolutely delighted with Harv’s appointment. He will lead the RAF brilliantly and ensure it remains ready to fly and fight, wherever and whenever required.”
Smyth’s appointment is viewed as a strategic choice to solidify the RAF’s operational agility, cyber and space capabilities, and commitment to NATO deterrence efforts.
