Military star ranking


Military star ranking is military terminology, used in mainly English speaking countries, to describe general and flag officers. Within Member [states of NATO|NATO's armed forces], the stars are equal to OF-6–10.

Star ranking

One-star

A one-star rank is usually the lowest ranking general or flag officer. In many Commonwealth countries, the one-star army rank of Brigadier is considered the highest field officer rank.

Two-star

A two-star rank is usually the second lowest ranking general or flag officer.

Three-star

A three-star rank is usually the second or third highest general or flag officer.

Four-star

A four-star rank is usually the highest or second highest ranking general or flag officer.

Five-star

A five-star rank is usually the highest ranking general or flag officer. This rank is usually a field marshal, general of the army, admiral of the fleet or marshal of the air force.

Proposed six-star

In the United [States Armed Forces], a six-star rank is a proposed rank immediately superior to a five-star rank, possibly to be worn by the General of the Armies or Admiral of the Navy. This proposal has not been officially recognized by the military or Congress.