Marine Brig. Gen. Eric M. Smith has reportedly been selected to serve as the Defense Secretary’s right-hand adviser.

The formal announcement has not yet been made, but sources say Smith will become the Pentagon chief’s top military aide. This change coming at a time when the Dept. faces numerous challenges including: the campaign to eradicate ISIS, tensions with Russia over Ukraine and Syria, and increased hostility with China in the South China Sea.

Smith’s predecessor, Army Lt. Gen. Ronald F. Lewis, was fired abruptly last month over allegations of an “improper relationship.”

RELATED: Army General, aide to Defense Secretary, fired for unconfirmed “improper relationship”

The Post reported that the move was “highly unusual” because it happened before a formal investigation could substantiate the claim of misconduct. Defense officials have still not provided any details about why Army Lt. Gen. Ron Lewis was removed from his job.

Brigadier General Smith has commanded regimental combat teams in Iraq and Afghanistan and previously served as senior military assistant to the deputy defense secretary. He assumed duties as Commander, U.S. Marine Corps Forces, South on June 29, 2015.

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