The timeline for U.S. Navy flag officer promotions—specifically from Rear Admiral (Lower Half, O-7) to Rear Admiral (Upper Half, O-8), and from Vice Admiral (O-9) to Admiral (O-10)—varies based on individual performance, billet availability, and Navy needs. Below is a general overview based on typical career progression, derived from Navy personnel practices and publicly available data.
### 1. Rear Admiral (Lower Half, O-7) to Rear Admiral (Upper Half, O-8) - Typical Timeframe: 2–4 years. - Factors: - Performance and Assignments: Officers must demonstrate success in O-7 billets (e.g., major staff roles, command of a carrier strike group, or shore commands). Selection boards evaluate leadership, operational impact, and readiness for broader responsibilities. - Billet Availability: O-8 positions are limited, requiring vacancies in roles like fleet staff, major command, or joint assignments. - Senate Confirmation: Promotions require Senate approval, which can introduce slight delays. - Context: For example, Admiral Alvin Holsey was promoted to Rear Admiral (Lower Half) in 2013 and to Rear Admiral (Upper Half) in 2015, a 2-year gap, which aligns with the faster end of the typical range due to his strong performance and Navy needs. - Data Point: Navy flag officer promotions often follow a 2–3-year cycle for O-7 to O-8, assuming sustained excellence, as seen in career timelines of other admirals (e.g., historical data from Navy promotion lists).
### 2. Vice Admiral (O-9) to Admiral (O-10) - Typical Timeframe: 3–5 years, though often longer or not achieved.
