Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan will complete his extended tenure in May 2026. He was appointed for a three-year term, which was originally due to end on 3 September 2025. Ahead of his superannuation, he was given an extension, extending his tenure until May 30, 2026. Who will succeed him As per window gossip, the next CDS could be from the Navy, reflecting India’s growing maritime focus. However, the picture is expected to become clearer only by April next year.