Ex-Royal Navy Head Admiral Sir Ben Key Dismissed After Misconduct Investigation

Former head of the Royal Navy, Admiral Sir Ben Key, has been officially dismissed following an investigation into misconduct allegations, as confirmed by the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD). The MoD stated that Sir Ben's conduct had significantly deviated from the values and standards expected of military personnel.

In response to the decision, Sir Ben, aged 59, issued a statement expressing deep remorse for his actions. "I deeply regret my conduct in the spring of last year, which fell well below the standard I set for myself and that which I set for the Royal Navy," he stated. He extended an apology to those personally affected and expressed gratitude to his wife, family, and friends for their support during what he described as a challenging period.

Sir Ben was relieved of his duties in May 2025 following an investigation into an alleged inappropriate relationship with a junior female colleague. These allegations first emerged in UK media reports the previous year, leading to a formal inquiry by military authorities. Such relationships conflict with the military's code of conduct due to potential power imbalances and concerns about professionalism.

Chief of Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin underscored the equal application of military standards, regardless of rank. "We expect the highest standards of behaviour from our service personnel and our civil servants. We investigate all allegations of inappropriate behaviour and will take robust action against anyone found to have fallen short of our standards," he articulated.

While Sir Ben retains his knighthood and pension, his military commission has been revoked, a rare measure for an officer of his status. Typically, senior officers maintain honorary military titles post-retirement, but this will not be applicable for Sir Ben.

Sir Ben Key began his career in the Royal Navy as a university cadet in 1984, advancing to become a qualified helicopter aircrew and principal warfare officer. His service included assignments on several frigates and destroyers in operational theaters worldwide. He was named First Sea Lord in November 2021 and had previously been recognized as a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) in 2016 and a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (KCB) in 2021.

General Sir Gwyn Jenkins of the Royal Marines has succeeded him.