VADM Blount — who has served as Commander of NATO’s Maritime Command over the past three years — is set to assume the role in July 2023, replacing General Sir Tim Radford.

The DSACEUR serves as the second in command to the Supreme Allied Commander Europe and concurrently as the deputy head of Allied Command Operations.

UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace welcomed VADM Blount’s appointment.

“I am delighted to congratulate Vice Admiral Keith Blount on his promotion to Admiral and appointment as Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe,” he said.

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“His appointment demonstrates the United Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to NATO and our leadership in European defence. I pay tribute to the contribution Vice Admiral Blount has made to the Royal Navy and the alliance in his career to date.

“He brings extensive leadership experience and has served on operations across the globe alongside our allies and partners. I look forward to continuing to work with him and NATO.”

Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said the appointment is a testament to VADM Blount’s leadership of NATO’s Maritime Forces.

“It also reflects the United Kingdom’s commitment to the alliance on land and in the air, our exceptional nuclear contribution, our growing cyber capabilities, and our pivotal role on NATO’s northern flank, all of which make Britain the leading European ally,” he added.

VADM Blount welcomed the opportunity to support command of NATO’s European forces.  

“It is an absolute honour to have been selected to succeed General Sir Tim Radford as the next Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe,” he said.

“He has been instrumental in guiding NATO’s work at a critical time for the alliance and its partners and I look forward to maintaining the momentum.

“The strength of NATO lies with its people and we have a highly skilled and dedicated team that is laser focused on our collective defence.”

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