On 19 September 2026, in Copenhagen, the Inspector General of the Bundeswehr, Carsten Breuer, was elected the new Chairman of the NATO Military Committee. He will succeed the Italian Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone.
Breuer, who is 61 years old, will take office in July 2027. In the election, he beat the Chief of the Defence Staff of Canada, General Jennie Carignan.
The Military Committee is the alliance's highest military body. Its chairman coordinates the positions of the chiefs of defence staff of the member states and serves as the principal military adviser to the NATO Secretary General.
Germany put forward Breuer's candidacy back in February 2026. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius at the time emphasised the general's analytical abilities and far-sightedness.
The election is seen as recognition of Germany's growing role in European defence. Berlin currently leads Europe in defence spending.
The last time a German held this post was more than 20 years ago — it was General Harald Kujat in 2002–2005.
Breuer has headed the Bundeswehr since March 2023. Previously, he commanded the Territorial Defence Command and led the COVID-19 task force.
How will this affect the balance of power within the alliance in the coming years?
In his speech after the election, Breuer thanked his colleagues for their trust and noted that the alliance faces serious security challenges in Europe and beyond.
The current chairman, Admiral Cavo Dragone, congratulated his successor and wished him success, noting his experience and knowledge of NATO.
