| Post: | Commander |
| Body: | the Navy |
| Flag: | Flag of the Egyptian Navy.svg |
| Flagborder: | yes |
| Flagcaption: | Flag of the Egyptian Navy |
| Incumbent: | Vice admiral Ashraf Ibrahim Atwa |
| Incumbentsince: | December 2022 |
| Department: | Egyptian Navy |
| Appointer: | The President |
| Deputy: | Deputy Commander of Navy |
The Commander of the Egyptian Navy (arz|قائد القوات البحرية|Qā'id al-quwāt al-baḥriyya) is the highest-ranking officer of the Egyptian Navy usually held by a vice admiral.[1] It is responsible for overseeing all naval operations, personnel, and strategic initiatives. It is appointed by the president.
Article 203 of the Egyptian constitution, as specified under the Branch II National Defense Council, designates the naval commander as the head of the naval forces. This legal framework outlines the responsibilities and authority of the naval commander in overseeing the operations, administration, and strategic initiatives of Egypt's naval forces.[2]
The commander of the Navy has primary command of the naval forces, ensuring the operational readiness and defense capabilities of Egypt's maritime interests. This includes the management of naval bases, fleets, and maritime training centers. The commander also plays a role in planning and executing naval strategy, both domestically and in cooperation with allied navies.[3]
The responsibilities of the commander of the Navy include, supervising naval operations and exercises, managing the development and modernization of naval assets, coordinating with other branches of the Egyptian Armed Forces in joint military operations, and representing the Egyptian Navy in international naval partnerships and security arrangements.[4]
The appointment of the Commander of the Navy is made by presidential decree, typically based on recommendations from the ministry of Defense and the chief of the staff.[5]
The position of commander of the Navy plays a primary role in shaping Egypt's maritime defense policy, particularly during key historical events such as the Suez Crisis of 1956,[6] the Six-Day War of 1967,[7] and the October War of 1973.[8] The modernization of the Egyptian Navy in the 21st century, including the acquisition of advanced warships and submarines, has been a central focus under naval commanders.[9]