The British Army has announced three senior leadership appointments involving new three-star roles.
Lieutenant General Mike Elviss CB MBE will succeed Lieutenant General Sir Ralph Wooddisse as Commander Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC) in late March 2026. Elviss currently serves as Commander Field Army and will move to Imjin Barracks in Gloucestershire to take command of the UK’s principal NATO corps-level contribution.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the ARRC is central to NATO’s renewed focus on corps-level ‘warfighting’ and forms part of the UK’s role as one of the alliance’s Strategic Reserve Corps. “It is a huge privilege to be selected as COMARRC at such a critical and exciting time, as the UK begins to meaningfully deliver on its commitments as one of NATO’s Strategic Reserve Corps,” Elviss said.
Armed Forces Minister Al Carns said the appointment reflects the UK’s commitment to providing experienced leadership to NATO formations. “The security environment doesn’t stand still, and neither can we. Appointing Lieutenant General Mike Elviss as COMARRC is a clear signal of the UK’s commitment to NATO — not just in words, but in the quality of the leadership we’re putting forward.”
The Army also announced that Lieutenant General Zac Stenning CB OBE will take up the newly titled position of Commander Land Forces. Stenning currently serves as Director of Cyber and Specialist Operations Command and will oversee operations, training and warfare development across the Army.
“I am honoured and excited to be returning to the Army after two years in Cyber and Specialist Operations Command,” Stenning said.
“I look forward to accelerating the modernisation of our Land Forces in support of Defence through the integration of advanced technology, innovative tactics, and the dedication of our brilliant soldiers and officers.”
Lieutenant General Simon Hamilton CBE has also been appointed Deputy Chief of the General Staff, succeeding Lieutenant General Sir David Eastman. Hamilton previously served as Chief Executive of Defence Equipment and Support. In his new role, Hamilton will lead the Army’s force design work, overseeing personnel and capability development while strengthening links with industry through the National Armaments Director Group.
“I am honoured, following the conclusion of my tenure as CEO Defence Equipment & Support, to become the next Deputy Chief of the General Staff,” Hamilton said. “I much look forward to returning to the Army Headquarters and supporting CGS in transforming the Army’s lethality.”
According to the Ministry of Defence, the three lieutenant generals will work under Chief of the General Staff General Sir Roly Walker while also supporting wider NATO and UK defence leadership responsibilities.
