In a move to solidify leadership within the Navy, President Donald Trump has put forth the nomination of Hung Cao for the position of Secretary of the Navy, a role he has been performing in an acting capacity for several months. Cao stepped into the acting role in April following the departure of former Secretary John Phelan, and his appointment now awaits Senate approval.
Hung Cao’s extensive military background includes a 25-year tenure in the Navy, where he served as a special operations officer with deployments to conflict zones such as Iraq and Afghanistan. His career also encompasses roles as a diver and explosive ordnance disposal officer. Prior to his current role, Cao was the Navy’s undersecretary. President Trump has lauded Cao as a “true warrior,” appealing to the Senate for a swift confirmation process. Cao expressed honor at the nomination and outlined his focus areas, including bolstering shipbuilding efforts and ensuring national security.
The nomination is timely as the Navy navigates significant challenges, particularly with personnel under pressure due to ongoing tensions with Iran. The USS Abraham Lincoln, for instance, has been on an extended deployment, prompting lawmakers to voice concerns about the well-being of the crew, citing issues such as fatigue, mental health, and supply shortages.
During his interim leadership, Cao has emphasized priorities such as shipbuilding, modernization, and the integration of artificial intelligence. His nomination coincides with other shifts in U.S. military leadership, marked by the recent resignation of Army Secretary Dan Driscoll. If confirmed, Cao will oversee the Navy and Marine Corps at a time when both operational demands and the emphasis on expanding naval capabilities are on the rise.