General Dynamics Names Insider Danny Deep CEO for January 2027

General Dynamics has named company president Danny Deep as its next chief executive officer, effective January 1, 2027, succeeding longtime leader Phebe Novakovic as part of a multi-year leadership transition plan.

"Danny is a highly skilled executive with rich operating experience. It has been a pleasure working closely with him and I am certain he will be an outstanding CEO," said Phebe Novakovic, according to a PR Newswire release.

Internal Background and Operational Experience

Deep brings 25 years of internal operational experience to the top post at the defense contractor. According to an Investing.com report, Deep has served as president of the company since 2025, following previous leadership roles as executive vice president of Global Operations, executive vice president of Combat Systems, and president of Land Systems.

Novakovic, who has steered the Reston, Virginia-based firm since 2013, will transition to the role of executive chairman upon Deep's elevation to CEO. During her tenure, Novakovic guided the aerospace and defense contractor through portfolio transformation and operational expansion, culminating in $52.6 billion in revenue in fiscal 2025.

Market Response and Scale

Trading in General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE: GD) shares closed at $335.46, up 1.26% from a previous close of $331.27, according to Finnhub market data as of October 12, 2026.

Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, General Dynamics employs more than 120,000 people globally across its business units, which manufacture products ranging from Gulfstream business jets and combat vehicles to nuclear-powered submarines and enterprise IT solutions.