President Donald Trump has put forward acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao as his nominee for the permanent Secretary of the Navy position, a role that has been vacant since John Phelan’s departure four months ago. This nomination will now move to the Senate for confirmation. Cao, who has been serving as the acting secretary since April, previously held the position of undersecretary of the Navy. His military career includes 25 years as a special operations officer, with service in Iraq and Afghanistan, and roles as a diver and explosive ordnance disposal officer.
In his statement, Trump lauded Cao as a “true warrior” and called for his swift confirmation by the Senate. Cao expressed his gratitude for the nomination, emphasizing his focus on enhancing shipbuilding efforts and ensuring homeland security. These priorities align with the current challenges facing the Navy, particularly as it deals with the complexities of ongoing tensions with Iran. The extended deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln has brought to light concerns regarding crew fatigue, mental health, and the adequacy of basic supplies.
During his time as acting secretary, Cao has prioritized shipbuilding, modernization, and the integration of artificial intelligence within the Navy. His nomination coincides with broader shifts in U.S. military leadership, including the recent resignation of Army Secretary Dan Driscoll. These changes are set against a backdrop of increased operational demands on the Navy and a strategic focus on expanding U.S. naval capabilities.
If confirmed, Cao would oversee the Navy and Marine Corps at a critical juncture, marked by heightened demands and a pressing need to bolster the U.S. naval fleet’s strength and technological edge. The expectation is that Cao’s extensive experience and focus on innovation will guide the Navy through these challenging times and help address ongoing operational and strategic concerns.