The United Kingdom’s National Cyber Force (NCF) has appointed Air Vice-Marshal Tim Neal-Hopes as its new commander. Neal-Hopes, a distinguished military professional with extensive academic qualifications in cyber, brings a wealth of experience to the NCF.
Furthermore, the NCF, created to centralize and strengthen the UK’s cyber capabilities, is currently operational but not fully staffed due to skills shortages. Neal-Hopes is tasked with overseeing its growth and opening the NCF’s new headquarters in Lancashire.
Additionally, Neal-Hopes’ appointment follows the departure of his predecessor, James Babbage, a nearly 30-year veteran of GCHQ, who left the NCF to join the National Crime Agency.
The NCF aims to have a balance of intelligence and military personnel, reflecting its role in national security. It is committed to being a responsible and democratic cyber power, exemplifying responsible use of offensive cyber capabilities. Neal-Hopes emphasized the NCF’s role in supporting military operations, countering state threats, and disrupting criminal activity.
