United States President-elect Donald Trump has named General James Mattis as his defence secretary.
US President-elect Donald Trump with US Marines General James Mattis and Vice-President-elect Mike Pence. Photo: AFP
Mr Trump previously described General Mattis, 66, as "a true general's general".
Known as "Mad Dog", the former marine was an outspoken critic of the Obama administration's Middle East policy, particularly on Iran.
He has referred to Iran as "the single most enduring threat to stability and peace in the Middle East".
Mr Trump said Gen Mattis would be officially named next week.