MP Congratulates Lurgan’s Harv Smyth Appointed as the next Chief of the Air Staff and Aide-de-Camp to His Majesty the King.

Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart, has welcomed the prestigious appointment of Air Marshal Harv Smyth CB OBE DFC MA RAF as the next Chief of the Air Staff and Aide-de-Camp to His Majesty the King.

This landmark appointment means Air Marshal Smyth born, raised, and educated in Lurgan will become the most senior officer in the Royal Air Force, taking up the post in August 2025. It is a significant moment of pride not only for the town of Lurgan but for the entire Upper Bann constituency and Northern Ireland.

Harv Smyth joined the RAF in 1991 as a direct entrant and has since forged a remarkable career, serving for 15 years as a frontline Harrier pilot and weapons instructor, flying hundreds of operational missions across Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, Afghanistan and Serbia. Since 2015, he has held a series of senior command and strategic roles, including his current position as Deputy Chief of the Defence Staff for Military Strategy and Operations.

His appointment comes at a time of growing international instability, with the RAF playing an increasingly vital role in NATO’s defence posture. Under Air Marshal Smyth’s leadership, the RAF will continue its transformation following the UK’s Strategic Defence Review, including the integration of F-35A fighter jets and a new focus on warfighting readiness.

Speaking on this prestigious appointment, Carla Lockhart MP said:

“I’m absolutely delighted to congratulate Air Marshal Harv Smyth on his appointment as Chief of the Air Staff. This is an incredible achievement and a truly proud moment for his family, for Lurgan, for Upper Bann, and for Northern Ireland as a whole.”

“Harv’s record of service is exemplary. Over more than three decades, he has consistently displayed courage, leadership and commitment from the frontline in combat zones to the strategic heart of UK defence planning. His appointment to the highest office in the Royal Air Force is richly deserved.”

“At a time when the UK faces growing global threats and an evolving defence landscape, Harv’s experience and calm leadership will be vital in guiding the RAF through the next chapter. He brings with him not only operational excellence, but a strong sense of duty and service to our nation.”

“This is also a deeply inspiring moment for our young people. Harv Smyth’s journey from the streets and schools of Lurgan to the top of the Royal Air Force is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with determination and integrity. He is flying the flag high for Lurgan, for Upper Bann and for Northern Ireland.”

“I know that our whole community joins me in congratulating Air Marshal Smyth and wishing him every success as he takes on this historic role leading one of the most respected air forces in the world.”