**Navy Dismisses Rear Admiral in Charge of Unmanned Systems Office**

In a decisive move following a substantiated complaint, the Navy has removed Rear Adm. Kevin Smith from his position as the program executive officer for unmanned and small combatants. The decision, announced on Tuesday, was based on a loss of confidence after an investigation by the Office of the Naval Inspector General.

Smith, who had been leading the office since June 2023, was relieved of his duties by Brett Seidle, the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development & Acquisition. The specific nature of the misconduct complaint has not been disclosed, but sources confirm that it led to the dismissal.

"The Navy maintains the highest standards for leaders and holds them accountable when those standards are not met," the service stated in a news release.

The program executive office for unmanned and small combatants plays a critical role in designing, developing, building, maintaining, and modernizing various Navy unmanned systems. These include mine warfare systems, special warfare systems, expeditionary warfare systems, and small surface combatants.

Following his dismissal, Smith has been temporarily reassigned to the staff of Naval Sea Systems Command. In the interim, the office's executive director, Melissa Kirkendall, has taken over his responsibilities.

This leadership change highlights the Navy's commitment to upholding stringent standards within its ranks, ensuring that those in command embody the highest levels of integrity and performance.