London: A senior military commander who
predicted Britain`s mission in Afghanistan could last up to 40
years was formally appointed on Friday as the head of the
country`s army.
Gen David Richards, a former commander of NATO forces in
Afghanistan, becomes Chief of the General Staff and succeeds
Gen Richard Dannatt, who was appointed in 2006 and frequently
clashed with lawmakers over defence spending.
Richards, who was commissioned into the Royal Artillery
in 1971, is regarded as politically savvy after building close
relationships with Afghan President Hamid Karzai and his
ministers while leading NATO troops.
Dannatt frequently criticised delays in providing
additional helicopters for British forces, and pressed the
government to spend more money on improving other equipment.
He said previously that expected cuts to Britain`s USD 55
billion annual defence budget would "not be welcome" among
military leaders, and could have a negative impact on
operations in Afghanistan and elsewhere.
Dannatt, who has been appointed Constable of the Tower of
London - a ceremonial role dating back to the 11th century -
also said Britain may need to increase its troop levels in
Afghanistan - despite the government`s reluctance to do so.
Britain has about 9,000 troops in Afghanistan, the
largest international force after the US, and most are based
in the southern province of Helmand.
Bureau Report
