Navy removes head of PEO USC citing naval inspector general investigation

Rear Adm. Kevin Smith has been relieved from his post as the Navy's program executive officer for unmanned and small combatants following "a complaint substantiated by an Office of the Naval Inspector General investigation," the service announced today.

Smith has been temporarily reassigned to the staff of Naval Sea Systems Command, while PEO USC Executive Director Melissa Kirkendall has assumed temporary responsibilities of the office in his absence, the notice states.

PEO USC is responsible for the development and acquisition of a wide variety of Navy programs including surface ships like the Constellation-class frigate, Littoral Combat Ships and the majority of the service’s uncrewed surface and undersea platforms.

Smith, who had lead PEO USC since June 2023, was relieved by Brett Seidle, the acting assistant Navy secretary for research, development and acquisition.

The announcement provides no further explanation for Smith’s removal but states, “the Navy maintains the highest standards for leaders and holds them accountable when those standards are not met.”

Inside Defense has requested additional information from the Navy.