France taps Air Force General Fabien Mandon as new military chief

In a significant shift in France’s military leadership, Air Force General Fabien Mandon has been appointed as the new chief of the French Armed Forces General Staff, replacing Thierry Burkhard.

The change was confirmed by French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu, who announced the president’s decision to relieve Burkhard of his duties, Caliber.Az reports.

Thierry Burkhard

Mandon, previously head of the president’s military staff, will take over amid increasing demands for a stronger national defence.

Reconnaissance et remerciements au général d’armée Thierry Burkhard, qui a servi la France au plus haut niveau durant quatre années comme Chef d’état-major des Armées.

Son commandement s’est distingué par une vision stratégique lucide des menaces et par sa volonté constante…

— Sébastien Lecornu (@SebLecornu) July 23, 2025

Minister Lecornu paid tribute to Burkhard’s tenure, praising his “clear strategic vision of threats” and his commitment to adapting the armed forces to emerging challenges. 

At the same time, he expressed confidence that Mandon will continue to push forward the crucial reforms and modernisation efforts necessary to face today’s evolving security environment.

General Mandon, a graduate of the Air Force Academy in 1990, began his career as a fighter pilot. Throughout his service, he commanded the 702nd Air Base and served as chief of staff to the Minister of Armed Forces.

His leadership of the president’s personal military staff earned him a promotion to the rank of Air Force General, positioning him for this top military role.

By Tamilla Hasanova