(CNN) — President Barack Obama is nominating Navy Vice Adm. Michael Rogers to be the next director of the National Security Agency, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said on Thursday.
Rogers would replace Gen. Keith Alexander, who has been the agency’s chief since 2005.
The NSA has come under fire for its sweeping electronic surveillance programs that were disclosed by intelligence leaker Edward Snowden.
Technically, Senate confirmation of the NSA director is not required. But senators will have their chance to vet him anyway. They must elevate his rank with a fourth star, which is required for the top-level post.
Rogers has been heading the Navy’s cyber command and previously served as the intelligence director for the Joint Chiefs. He also a cryptologist.
