Air Chief Marshall Richard Knighton, head of the U.K. Royal Air Force, has been named Chief of the Defence Staff, effective September, London announced Friday. He will take over the role from Adm. Tony Radakin, whose term extension up to autumn was announced in March 2024.
U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Defense Secretary John Healey expressed confidence in Knighton’s qualifications, citing his extensive leadership experience with the RAF.
RAF Leadership
Starmer said Knighton will perform as “an exceptional leader,” noting his advocacy for innovation and excellence. “In such a rapidly changing global context, we need our armed forces to be more lethal, better integrated and equipped for the future as they keep our country safe. I know Rich will rise to that challenge,” the premier said.
Healey also acknowledged how Knighton “led the RAF with distinction through a period of intense demand.” He added that the chief of the defense staff’s role will be critical to delivering the transformation of the U.K. armed forces envisioned under the Strategic Defence Review launched in July.
Joint Allied Missions
According to his U.K. government bio, Knighton has led the Royal Air Force for over a decade, overseeing operations that included joint missions with allies, NATO air defense, support for Gaza and Ukraine, and operations against Yemen’s Houthi rebels. He also previously took various roles in the Ministry of Defence and Air Command, such as strategic and capability planning.
Knighton started his RAF stint in 1988 as a university cadet and a Clare College engineering student. He pursued frontline assignments early in his air force career through duties on the Nimrod Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Tornado and the Harrier Force. He previously served as RAF Wittering’s station commander and concurrent logistics force commander.