“They deserve the best training and weapons available. Their intrinsic desire to solve problems using technology should not be stifled by red tape,” said Hung Cao, newly appointed acting Secretary of the Navy. His words reflect a commitment to modernizing the Navy while addressing the needs of service members.
Cao’s appointment comes on the heels of John Phelan’s departure, which was announced by Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell on April 22, 2026. Phelan’s exit is part of a broader shake-up in military leadership under the Trump administration. With a background steeped in both military service and technological innovation, Cao steps into this role with an impressive resume.
Before his new position, Hung Cao served as the Under Secretary of the Navy. He brings 25 years of experience as a U.S. Navy captain, having deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Somalia. His academic credentials include a bachelor’s degree in ocean engineering from the U.S. Naval Academy and a master’s in applied physics from the Naval Postgraduate School.
Cao’s experience extends beyond traditional military roles; he has been involved in modernization efforts for the Navy’s IT systems and has expertise in electronic warfare and counter-drone technology from his tenure at CACI International. This blend of experience could be pivotal for navigating current challenges faced by the Navy.
However, Cao is not without controversy. He previously criticized COVID-19 vaccine mandates for service members and expressed skepticism about military diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. Such remarks have sparked discussions about his approach to leadership and policy priorities in this new role.
His candidness is evident when he remarked, “What we need is alpha males and alpha females who are going to rip out their own guts, eat them and ask for seconds.” This metaphor underscores his belief in resilience and determination within military ranks—qualities he seems eager to cultivate.
As Cao takes charge, he faces immediate challenges including ongoing modernization efforts and adapting to emerging global threats. His track record suggests he will push for innovative solutions that align with his vision for an agile and responsive Navy.
The coming weeks will reveal how Cao implements his strategies and whether they resonate with service members and leaders alike. Details remain unconfirmed regarding specific initiatives he plans to prioritize first.
