Senate Approves New SOUTHCOM Head

February 2, 2026 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2026-1770052920247-2344

US Marine Corps General Francis Donovan Confirmed as SOUTHCOM Commander

The US Senate has approved Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Francis Donovan as the new head of US Southern Command, following a voice vote on the chamber floor. Donovan will take over from Acting Commander Lt. Gen. Pettus, who stepped down after Adm. Alvin Holsey announced plans to leave the post in October. Breaking Defense reports that Donovan has outlined his plan to analyze SOUTHCOM headquarters capabilities and build regional security through military-to-military relationships. The confirmation comes as the US military continues to strike small boats in the Caribbean Sea and conduct operations in Venezuela.

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Key Takeaways

Senators approved Lt. Gen. Francis Donovan for SOUTHCOM head.
Donovan to take over from Acting Commander Lt. Gen. Pettus.
Changes at the command have been ongoing since Adm. Alvin Holsey stepped down.

US Marine Corps

Strategic Implications

This confirmation may indicate a shift in US military priorities towards the Western Hemisphere, as suggested by recent changes in the National Security Strategy and National Defense Strategy. Donovan’s focus on strengthening SOUTHCOM headquarters and building regional security could signal an increased emphasis on counter-narcotics and counter-terrorism operations in the region.