Dassault Aviation has named Eric Trappier (right) its new chairman and CEO. The 52-year-old Frenchman, who is currently the group’s international executive vice president, is set to succeed Charles Edelstenne (left) when he retires on January 8.

In an announcement this morning, Dassault said that Trappier has been appointed to the company’s board of directors, replacing Philippe Hustache, who is stepping down. The French airframer has also appointed Loik Segalen its new COO, effective January 9. Trappier joined Dassault in 1984 and spent most of his career on the military side of its business, including leadership roles in marketing its Mirage and Rafale fighters worldwide. He has also previously served as the group’s vice president for the Middle East and Africa, as well as head of worldwide sales. Segalen is currently Dassault’s director general of economic and social affairs.

Edelstenne, who turns 75 on January 9, is retiring after more than half a century of service to Dassault. He will remain as a director of the company and a member of its audit committee.