President Donald Trump has put forward Hung Cao as his nominee for the position of Secretary of the Navy, aiming to fill a vacancy that has persisted for four months since the departure of John Phelan. Currently serving as the acting Navy Secretary, Cao’s confirmation hinges on approval from the Senate. Before stepping into the role of acting secretary in April, Cao was the Navy’s undersecretary. His extensive military career spans 25 years, during which he served as a Navy captain and a special operations officer, with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Additionally, Cao has experience as a diver and an explosive ordnance disposal officer.
Expressing confidence in Cao’s capabilities, Trump described him as a “true warrior” and called on the Senate to expedite his confirmation. Cao himself expressed honor at the nomination and emphasized his commitment to enhancing shipbuilding and safeguarding national security. His ascent to the role comes at a time when the Navy is under increased scrutiny due to the demands of ongoing conflicts, particularly with Iran. The USS Abraham Lincoln’s extended deployment has spotlighted issues such as crew fatigue, mental health challenges, and supply shortages, drawing attention from lawmakers.
During his time as acting secretary, Cao has prioritized initiatives in shipbuilding, modernization, and the integration of artificial intelligence. His nomination arrives amidst a period of significant transitions in the U.S. military’s upper echelons, highlighted by the recent resignation of Army Secretary Dan Driscoll. These changes underscore the shifting dynamics within the military’s leadership structure.
Should he receive confirmation, Cao would assume permanent leadership over the Navy and Marine Corps at a critical juncture marked by heightened operational demands. His focus on expanding the Navy’s capabilities aligns with the current strategic goals of the U.S. military, which places a premium on bolstering naval strength in response to evolving global threats.