Hybrid · RUSI, 61 Whitehall·Defense & Security

Chief of the Air Staff to Deliver Lord Trenchard Memorial Lecture

Overview

This year's Lord Trenchard Memorial Lecture will be delivered by Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth, Chief of the Air Staff, Royal Air Force.

Air Chief Marshal Smyth will connect the enduring lessons of air power history with the capabilities required to equip the Royal Air Force for future conflict. Drawing on contemporary operations and historical precedent, he will discuss the shifting paradigms of modern warfare and the collective national response required to secure the UK and support allied operations in an increasingly unpredictable and contested world.

About the Speaker

Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth CB OBE DFC joined the RAF in 1991 and spent 15 years as a frontline Harrier pilot and weapons instructor. Prior to taking up his current role in August 2025, he served as the RAF's Deputy Commander (Operations), UK Air and Space Commander, and Deputy Chief of Defence Staff (Military Strategy and Operations).

Joining Instructions

This members' event is taking place both online and in person at RUSI, 61 Whitehall, London, SW1A 2ET. If you have any questions regarding this event, please email rusievents@rusi.org

Event details

DateMon, Oct 26, 2026

Time9:00 AM – 10:00 AM ET

FormatHybrid

LocationRUSI, 61 Whitehall

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Royal United Services Institute

London

The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) is an independent think tank engaged in cutting-edge research on defence, security and international affairs. A unique institution, founded in 1831 by the Duke of Wellington, RUSI embodies nearly two centuries of forward thinking, free discussion, and careful reflection on international affairs and defence and security matters. RUSI is a British institution operating with an international perspective. Offices in London, Brussels and Nairobi reinforce our global reach. Over the years, we have amassed an outstanding reputation for quality and objectivity. Our heritage, bases in the heart of both Whitehall and Brussels, and extensive networks inside and outside governments, give RUSI a unique insight and authority.

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