From a press release of the PIZ Marine at the Rostock Naval Command
On Thursday, 25 September 2025, the Inspector of the Navy, Vice Admiral Jan Christian Kaack, will hand over command of the fleet at the Mürwik Naval Academy. After more than three years at the helm, Vice Admiral Frank Martin Lenski is retiring. He had been Commander of the Fleet and Support Forces and Deputy to the Chief of Naval Operations since 11 March 2022.
Following the handover ceremony, Vice Admiral Lenski is given a grand send-off into retirement.
The aerospace engineer began his military career as an aircraft engineering officer. After completing his admiral's staff training, he worked as a consultant and head of division at the Federal Ministry of Defence. This was followed by assignments as Head of Department in the Defence Forces Base and Commander of the Naval Support Command. In 2017, he took on the role of Head of the Operational Support Department and became Chief of Staff at the Naval Command in 2020.
"After 44 years in the navy and the Bundeswehr, I look back with satisfaction and gratitude on a challenging, formative and varied time. In all my assignments, I have been trusted to lead, shape and mould. I leave the navy with great thanks and am proud to have been part of this strong community. At the same time, I am delighted that my family is now at the centre of my life."
The new commander of the fleet will be Rear Admiral Axel Deertz. The naval officer is currently assigned to the Federal Ministry of Defence, where he is deputy head of the Operational Readiness and Support Department. Rear Admiral Deertz is looking forward to the new challenge with confidence: "After two intensive years in the BMVg, I am very pleased to be returning to the Navy. I bring with me many topics and expertise, such as increasing operational readiness or personnel growth, including through the New Military Service, from my previous assignment in the BMVg. I know what an extensive package of tasks lies ahead of us and I am certain that we will master them together. I am delighted to be able to actively shape the fundamental reorganisation and growth of our navy in these turbulent times."