Top News

New head of British armed forces named

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-07-14 23:20

LONDON-- General David Richards was named on Wednesday as the next Chief of the Defense Staff -- the head of the British armed forces, the Ministry of Defense said.

Richards will replace Air Chief Marshal Jock Stirrup, who is to step down later this year.

"I congratulate General Sir David Richards on his appointment as Air Chief Marshal, Sir Jock Stirrup's successor as Chief of the Defense Staff," said Prime Minister David Cameron.

"I have no doubt that Sir David will build on this in the years to come, ensuring that all three services play their part in protecting Britain's national security in Afghanistan and elsewhere," Cameron said.

Defense Secretary Liam Fox also thanked Stirrup for his "excellent leadership" of the military.

Richards currently commands the British army and served as the head of the international coalition forces in Afghanistan.