Air Vice-Marshal Christopher Anthony Mullen is a distinguished leader whose career reflects unwavering dedication, courage, and service to his country. Commissioned into the Royal Air Force in 1993, he earned his wings as a helicopter pilot and has since served with distinction in multiple operational theatres, including Kosovo, Bosnia, and Iraq. Across more than three decades, he has demonstrated exceptional professionalism, steadfast commitment, and inspirational leadership, embodying the highest traditions and values of the Royal Air Force.
Throughout his career, Air Vice-Marshal Mullen has held a wide range of operational and strategic roles, showcasing both tactical expertise and visionary leadership. He has commanded RAF Shawbury, shaping the training and development of future aircrew, and has worked in senior coordination positions within NATO and allied operations. His experience also includes serving as a liaison to senior international military leadership, strengthening strategic partnerships and enhancing collaboration across allied forces.
In January 2026, he was appointed Head of the British Defence Staff and Defence Attaché in Washington, D.C., a role of immense responsibility and trust. In this position, he leads bilateral defence relations, fostering collaboration, shared security, and mutual understanding between the United Kingdom and the United States armed forces. This appointment reflects his professional excellence, strategic insight, and the confidence he inspires at the highest levels of international defence.
Air Vice-Marshal Mullen’s career is defined by relentless service, integrity, and profound impact. His contributions have strengthened alliances, advanced operational capability, and exemplified the very best of British military leadership. As a mentor, strategist, and ambassador, he continues to inspire colleagues and future generations with his dedication, vision, and unwavering commitment to duty.
A Defence Attaché is a member of the armed forces who serves in an embassy as a representative of their country’s defence establishment abroad. The Defence Attaché is responsible for bilateral military and defence relations. The Ministry of Defence (MOD) protects the security, independence and interests of our country at home and abroad. We work with our allies and partners whenever possible. Our aim is to ensure that the armed forces have the training, equipment and support necessary for their work.
The Defence Attaché to the United States holds a vital and highly respected role, serving as the principal military representative of their nation within one of the world’s most strategically significant capitals. Tasked with fostering strong defence relationships, promoting strategic cooperation, and facilitating dialogue between armed forces, the Defence Attaché acts as both a trusted advisor and a bridge-builder, ensuring seamless coordination on matters of security, policy, and operational collaboration. This role requires exceptional judgment, diplomatic skill, and a deep understanding of military strategy, as well as the ability to represent national interests with integrity and clarity.
At the heart of this office lies the responsibility to strengthen alliances, build mutual trust, and advance shared security objectives. The Defence Attaché engages with senior military leaders, government officials, and international counterparts, translating complex defence priorities into actionable partnerships and initiatives. Through principled leadership, strategic foresight, and unwavering professionalism, the Defence Attaché plays a central role in maintaining and enhancing the enduring bonds of military cooperation, safeguarding national interests, and promoting global stability.
The MOD works with the United States on joint overseas operations and contingency planning, bilateral defence co-operation, interoperability and engages on defence trade. Our team in the United States assists this work and communicates the broader transatlantic defence relationship, elevates the UK’s interests and reputation and provides high-quality advice and reporting to the UK on all aspects of defence business.
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