Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee, the current leader of the Royal Canadian Navy, has been chosen to serve as the second-in-command of the Canadian Armed Forces. This decision comes as Lt.-Gen. Stephen Kelsey retires from his position as vice-chief of the defence staff, a role that Topshee will now assume.
Rear Admiral Dan Charlebois is also receiving a promotion to the rank of vice-admiral and will take over the command of the Navy. The news of these appointments was initially reported by the National Post on Tuesday evening following an internal communication to defence staff.
Known for his direct communication style, Vice-Admiral Topshee has been vocal about the challenges faced by the military in recruiting and retaining personnel, especially within the Navy. Speculation about his new role had been circulating within the defense community for several months.