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Carl Gillis

Carl Gillis

Strategic Advisor to the Chief of Navy, Belgian Navy

Rear Admiral (LH) is a seasoned Naval officer with extensive experience in international security, naval operations, and defense diplomacy. As the Defense, Military, Naval, and Air Attaché to the USA and Canada (2021-2024), he represented the Belgian Minister of Defense and Chief of Defense, strengthening military cooperation across training, operations, procurement, and strategic planning. His tenure included serving as Dean of the 147 Naval Attachés in Washington, D.C.

Previously, he played a pivotal role in Belgian military intelligence (2020-2021), contributing to strategic policy and interagency cooperation. As Commanding Officer of Joint Staff Operations (2017-2020), he oversaw global Belgian military operations, including counterterrorism efforts and crisis response during the COVID-19 pandemic.

His career spans high-level leadership in the Belgian and ABNL (Belgium-Netherlands-Luxembourg) naval forces, including roles in mine countermeasure development, naval policy, and commanding frontline operations—notably during EU Operation ATALANTA against piracy. He also served as Head of Maritime and Joint Operations at the Belgian Defence College, shaping future military leaders.

A graduate of the U.S. Naval War College, he specializes in policy, strategy, and military operations, fostering global defense partnerships.

Sessions