The correct answer is Lieutenant General Susan Coyle In News • The Australian government announced on April 13, 2026, that for the first time in its 125-year history, the army will be led by a woman. Explanation & Key Takeaways: • Lieutenant General Susan Coyle, who is currently the chief of joint capabilities, will take over as the chief of army in July 2026. • She will replace Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, who has held the post since July 2022. • Coyle has a distinguished career spanning nearly four decades, with senior command experience in Afghanistan and the Middle East. • Her appointment is described as a historic moment aimed at increasing female representation in the Australian Defence Force (ADF). • She possesses significant expertise in cyber-warfare, which is vital as the army transforms to include long-range firepower and drones. Related Concepts: • Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, the current chief of the navy, has been appointed as the head of the ADF, succeeding Admiral David Johnston. • Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley, the current deputy chief of the navy, will replace Mark Hammond as the head of the navy branch. • Currently, women make up about 21 percent of the Australian defence forces and 18.5 percent of senior leadership roles. • The ADF aims to reach a target of 25 percent female participation by the year 2030. Important Notes: • The appointment comes at a time when the ADF is facing a class action lawsuit regarding allegations of systemic sexual harassment and discrimination. • The Australian Army is currently undergoing a major transformation to equip itself with modern combat tools like drones. • Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Defence Minister Richard Marles hailed the appointment as a significant step for women serving in or considering a career in the military.