Trump names 'Mad Dog' general as Defence Secretary

  • Video report by ITV News Washington Correspondent Robert Moore

Donald Trump has named his future Defence Secretary, a former US Marine Corp four-star General.

James Mattis is known in the Pentagon as a smart, cerebral and no-nonsense military leader, who builds a strong rapport with the troops under his command.

Some of his officers have noted how Mattis prefers to sleep in a foxhole with his troops in war zones than in more luxurious quarters, but also likes to cite Roman and Greek military strategists.

He is likely to be quickly confirmed by the Senate, even though it's highly unusual for a General to be appointed Defence Secretary, normally a civilian role.

Mattis is generally considered a hardliner on Iran, favouring a tough approach to stop Tehran acquiring a nuclear capability.

The former head of Central Command is perhaps best known for his colourful quotes. Some of his more controversial comments include: