SUBFOR 2026 Change of Command 23 February 2026

Vice Adm. Richard Seif walks through the sideboys during the Submarine Force change of command ceremony on 20 February 2026. Image courtesy of Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Mailani Jones-Thornton and retrieved from DVIDS.

VADM Richard Seif, USN relieved VADM Robert Gaucher, USN as Commander, Submarine Forces/Submarine Force Atlantic during a change of command ceremony held onboard Naval Station Norfolk, 20 February 2026.

Gaucher assumed his current duties as Commander, Submarine Forces in December 2023. He served as undersea domain lead and was responsible for the Submarine Force’s strategic vision. As Commander, Submarine Force Atlantic, he commanded all Atlantic-based U.S. submarines, their crews and supporting shore activities. These responsibilities also included duties as commander, Task Force (CTF) 114, CTF 88, and CTF 46. As commander, Allied Submarine Command, he served as the principal undersea warfare advisor to all North Atlantic Treaty Organization strategic commanders.

Gaucher will continue his naval service as the first Direct Reporting Portfolio Manager (DPRM) for Submarines. As DRPM for Submarines, Gaucher will oversee the production of Virginia and Columbia-class submarines.

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