Leonardo Romanini appointed as new Chilean Air Force Commander in Chief

President José Antonio Kast has appointed Aviation General Leonardo Romanini Gutiérrez as the new Commander in Chief of the Chilean Air Force (FACh). Romanini is scheduled to officially assume his duties on November 5, replacing the current commander, Air General Hugo Rodríguez González.

Romanini, 62, has an extensive military career, including serving as the head of the Joint Staff (EMCO) starting in 2025. He is a specialized war pilot with over 3,300 flight hours, having operated aircraft such as the Mirage 50 and F-16 Block 50. His previous roles include serving as the Chief of the FACh General Staff and as a Chilean air attaché in the United States.

The Ministry of National Defense stated that the appointment aims to strengthen the Armed Forces and ensure institutional continuity. Romanini will lead the FACh through a period focused on modernization, technological development, and the enhancement of strategic capabilities.