The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) has a new leader — and for the first time in its history, the role is being held by a woman.
Lieutenant-General Jamie Speiser-Blanchet assumed command of the RCAF from Lieutenant-General Eric Kenny during a formal change of command ceremony held Thursday at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum in Ottawa. The event was presided over by General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff.
Speiser-Blanchet becomes the 22nd Commander of the RCAF and brings a wealth of experience to the post. A tactical helicopter pilot who flew the CH-146 Griffon, she has served in various staff and command positions, and has deployed in support of both United Nations and NATO missions. Most recently, she was the Deputy Commander of the RCAF.
“It is a privilege to assume command of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) at such a pivotal time in our history, as we reflect on a century of service and prepare for the challenges ahead,” Speiser-Blanchet said. “Under Lieutenant-General Kenny’s leadership, the RCAF has embraced change, advanced modernization, and proudly celebrated our Centennial. His dedication to operational excellence and commitment to our people have laid a strong foundation for the future. As we move forward, I remain focused on strengthening our culture, supporting our personnel and their families, modernizing our capabilities, and deepening the partnerships that make us stronger — all with the aim of ensuring the RCAF continues to deliver air and space power, now and into the next century.”
Outgoing commander Eric Kenny led the RCAF since 2022 and is retiring from the Canadian Armed Forces after 36 years of service.
“It has been an honour to serve as Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF),” Kenny said. “Over the past several years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the exceptional dedication, resilience, and professionalism of our aviators and civilian personnel across Canada and around the world. Together, we have advanced key modernization initiatives that will shape the RCAF’s future for years to come, and we proudly commemorated our Centennial — a celebration of the generations who built this institution and the people who continue to serve it with pride. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have led such a remarkable team. I know that under Lieutenant-General Speiser-Blanchet’s leadership, the RCAF will continue to thrive and evolve to meet the challenges of tomorrow.”
Chief of the Defence Staff General Jennie Carignan praised both leaders during the ceremony.
“Today marks a transition and a celebration for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF),” said Carignan. “I want to sincerely thank Lieutenant-General Eric Kenny for his exceptional leadership during a transformative period for the RCAF. He led the charge on modernization efforts that will shape the future of air and space power, while also overseeing the commemoration of the RCAF Centennial with the pride and recognition it so deeply deserves. I welcome Lieutenant-General Speiser Blanchet as the new Commander and have full confidence in her ability to continue building on this momentum and championing our people.”
The RCAF supports several key roles within the Canadian Armed Forces and Government of Canada priorities, including search and rescue, continental airspace protection through NORAD, and ongoing NATO operations. The Air Force includes approximately 11,600 Regular Force members, 2,000 Reservists, and 1,400 civilian personnel.
