The New Year Honours List 2026: Celebrating Exceptional Contributions in Defence

The New Year Honours List for 2026 has been revealed, recognising numerous individuals for their exceptional service to the UK military and civilian sectors. The awards acknowledge contributions across the armed forces, with categories including promotions in the orders of the British Empire as well as commendations for valuable service.

The Military Division of the New Year Honours List

Royal Navy Awards

In the Royal Navy, notable promotions include Vice Admiral Michael Keith Utley, who has been appointed as a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath. Rear Admiral James Miles Benjamin Parkin has been honoured as a Companion in the same esteemed order.

For the Order of the British Empire, Admiral Sir Antony Radakin has been elevated to Knight Grand Cross. Several other officers, including Commodore Sharon Louise Malkin and Brigadier Christopher Norman Maurice Patrick Ordway, have been acknowledged as Commanders. A broader group has been appointed as Officers and Members, recognising their diverse contributions.

Army Awards

The Army’s Honours brought recognition to Lieutenant General Jeremy Matthew James Bennett, Major General Sarah Helen Johansen, and Major General Gerald Mark Strickland, who were appointed as Companions in the Order of the Bath. Major General David James Eastman has been recognised as a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire.

Several promotions highlight exceptional leadership within the ranks, with Brigadier Mark Joffrie Comer and Brigadier Shay Joseph James Marks receiving Commander designations. Numerous individuals, including Lieutenant Colonel Finlay Bibby and Warrant Officer Class 1 Casey Alan Brooks, have been acknowledged as Officers and Members for their valuable military service.

Royal Air Force Awards

In the Royal Air Force, Air Chief Marshal Harvey Smyth has been appointed as Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath. Air Vice-Marshal David Scott Arthurton and Air Vice-Marshal Timothy David Neal-Hopes have received Companion honours, demonstrating leadership within the service.

A commendable list of individuals, from Wing Commander Frederic Yves Gagnon to Flight Lieutenant Jack James Bentley, have been recognised as Members, highlighting the breadth of contributions provided by personnel across various roles.

Civilian Division of the New Year Honours 2026

Recognition of Contributions to Defence

The Civilian Division includes significant acknowledgements such as Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) awarded to Samantha Louise des Forges, who has played a vital role in equity and justice within the Ministry of Defence.

Additionally, numerous individuals from various teams within the Ministry have been honoured with Officer and Member designations in the Order of the British Empire, including Joe William Homshaw and Fiona Bloor, reflecting outstanding service to Defence.

Further Honours and Commendations

Several names stand out within the Members of the Order of the British Empire, such as Nichola Claire Dugmore, who has been recognised for her impactful work in Defence. Meanwhile, others like Iain Andrew Haggis and Bhishma Raj Niraula have also been acknowledged for their dedicated service.

Summary and Impact

The New Year Honours List 2026 further cements the UK’s commitment to recognising both military and civilian contributions to national security and welfare. The diverse achievements of these individuals illustrate the dedicated service and excellence that is centred around the UK’s armed forces and public sector.

Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/the-military-civilian-divisions-of-the-new-year-honours-2026