President Donald Trump has put forward Hung Cao, the acting Navy Secretary, as his choice for the permanent Secretary of the Navy. This nomination comes four months after the departure of the former secretary, John Phelan, and will require approval from the Senate. Cao, who took on the role of acting secretary in April, has previously held the position of the Navy’s undersecretary. His military career spans 25 years, during which he served as a special operations officer with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Additionally, Cao has experience as a diver and an explosive ordnance disposal officer.
In announcing the nomination, Trump commended Cao as a “true warrior” and called for a swift confirmation by the Senate. Cao expressed that being nominated for the position is an honor and emphasized his commitment to bolstering shipbuilding efforts and ensuring homeland security. His nomination coincides with a period of intense scrutiny on the Navy, particularly concerning the pressures faced by personnel amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. The protracted deployment of the USS Abraham Lincoln has sparked concerns among lawmakers regarding the well-being of the crew, including issues of fatigue, mental health, and shortages of essential supplies.
During his tenure as acting secretary, Cao has prioritized initiatives focused on shipbuilding, modernization, and the integration of artificial intelligence. His nomination is part of a broader reshuffle in senior U.S. military leadership, which includes the recent resignation of Army Secretary Dan Driscoll. These changes are occurring as the military navigates heightened operational demands and the strategic imperative to expand U.S. naval capabilities.
Should Cao be confirmed, he will assume permanent oversight of the Navy and Marine Corps during a time when operational demands are high and there is a significant emphasis on enhancing naval strength. This leadership transition highlights the ongoing efforts to address both current challenges and future readiness within the U.S. Navy.