Esper sworn-in as new US Secretary Of Defense

Muscat: Dr Mark Esper was sworn in as the US's new Secretary of Defense following his confirmation by the Senate on Tuesday.

Speaking at the White House before Esper took the oath of office, US President Donald Trump praised the West Point alumnus for his years of service in the military.

"There is no one more qualified to lead the Department of Defense than Mark Esper," Trump said.

"A West Point graduate — great student, actually — Secretary Esper served our military for 21 years, including in the Gulf War. He also advanced US national security in government and in private sector, most recently as Secretary of the Army, where he played a critical role training and equipping our armed forces.

"That’s where I got to know Mark. And there was nobody that did a better job than Mark and there’s nobody that loves it more than Mark."

Esper's oath was administered by Justice Samuel Alito.

"It is an honour of a lifetime to be appointed Secretary of Defense and to lead the greatest military in history. And I will do so with that same energy and commitment to duty, honour, and country that I have for nearly four decades since my early days at West Point," said Esper.

"Mr. President, it is a privilege for me and for my family to be here with you today. Thank you for your leadership and for your commitment to a strong national defence and to all of our service members. Our military has made tremendous gains in recent years thanks to your leadership and we stand ready today to take on any challenge," he added.

Esper was confirmed by the Senate in a 90-8 vote.

The Bronze Star recipient is the department's first permanent secretary since James Mattis resigned in December.

Rep Adam Smith (D-WA) Chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, said in a statement, "Our national defence strategy requires strong, stable leadership and after seven long months the Pentagon finally has a confirmed Secretary of Defense.

"The complex challenges that we face around the globe are too serious for key positions at the Department of Defense to remain transient. Instead, our country needs predictable leadership at the Pentagon, capable of withstanding internal political pressure in what has been a historically turbulent administration."