Trump’s Pentagon revamp sees warfighter Lt. Gen. Dan Caine nominated as next chairman of Joint Chiefs

In a dramatic reshuffle of the U.S. military’s top leadership, President Donald Trump has nominated Lieutenant General Dan “Razin” Caine, USAF, as the next Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. This move, announced by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, marks a major transition in the nation’s military leadership, with an emphasis on battle-ready command.

General Caine, known for his aggressive tactical mindset and unwavering commitment to the warfighter ethos, will replace outgoing Chairman General Charles “CQ” Brown, Jr., USAF. Brown, who has served for over four decades, is stepping down after a tenure marked by strategic shifts and operational challenges.

“General Caine embodies the warfighter ethos and is exactly the leader we need to meet the moment,” Hegseth said in his statement, reinforcing the administration’s focus on military readiness and combat effectiveness.

The shake-up extends beyond the Joint Chiefs. Hegseth also called for nominations for two other senior roles: Chief of Naval Operations and Air Force Vice Chief of Staff. Admiral Lisa Franchetti and General James Slife, the current holders of these positions, have been recognised for their service but are set to be replaced as part of the administration’s broader overhaul of military leadership.

Additionally, nominations are being sought for the Judge Advocates General of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, further signifying a sweeping personnel transition under the Trump administration.

Hegseth underscored the administration’s priority in ensuring that the U.S. military remains focused on its primary mission: “Under President Trump, we are putting in place new leadership that will focus our military on its core mission of deterring, fighting, and winning wars.”

With Caine’s nomination and further personnel changes expected, the Trump administration appears determined to reshape the Pentagon’s leadership, installing commanders aligned with its vision of a combat-ready, mission-focused military.