Overview

• Admiral Sir Ben Key, 59, has been suspended as First Sea Lord while an investigation into an alleged extramarital relationship with a subordinate is conducted.
• The Ministry of Defence confirmed the ongoing inquiry but declined to provide further details, citing the sensitive nature of the case.
• This marks the first misconduct investigation of its kind for the top officer in the Royal Navy's 500-year history.
• Vice Admiral Sir Martin Connell has assumed full command of the Navy during Key's suspension, ensuring operational continuity.
• General Sir Gwyn Jenkins is widely reported as the leading candidate to permanently succeed Key, pending the conclusion of the investigation.