Navy Under Secretary Hung Cao to Lead Major Overhaul of Navy and Marine Corps
In a significant move aimed at revitalizing the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan has appointed Hung Cao as the new Under Secretary of the Navy. Sworn in on October 3, 2025, by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Cao is tasked with spearheading a comprehensive reform initiative designed to modernize the Navy’s operations and enhance the overall readiness of its forces.
A New Era of Leadership
Cao, a former U.S. Navy captain and a prominent Republican figure, previously ran for the U.S. Senate in Virginia. His appointment comes at a time when the Navy is facing challenges related to operational efficiency and readiness. Phelan emphasized in a memo that the reforms aim to “sharpen readiness, fix faster, and put sailors, Marines, and their families first,” while also restoring the warrior ethos that has historically defined the Navy and Marine Corps.
The reforms are not merely administrative; they represent a cultural shift within the military. Hegseth, in remarks made to flag and general officers at Marine Corps Base Quantico, underscored the need for a “ruthless, dispassionate and common-sense application of standards.” He asserted that standards must be uniform, gender-neutral, and high, warning that anything less could jeopardize the lives of service members.
Key Initiatives Under Cao’s Leadership
Cao’s reform agenda is ambitious and multifaceted. It includes the introduction of a new inspection system aimed at improving military family housing, with a commitment to 60-day repair timelines. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of quality living conditions for service members and their families, which can significantly impact morale and readiness.
In addition to housing improvements, the Navy plans to revamp its dining facilities. The new menus will focus on healthier, locally sourced options, aligning with the Navy’s commitment to combat readiness and overall well-being. This initiative is part of a broader trend within the military to prioritize nutrition as a key component of operational effectiveness.
Modernizing IT and Business Systems
One of the most pressing issues facing the Navy has been its outdated IT and business systems. Cao’s reforms will address this by replacing these systems with modern, mobile-ready platforms designed to streamline daily operations. This modernization effort aims to empower sailors with the tools they need to perform their duties effectively, marking a significant shift in how the Navy approaches technology.
Moreover, the Navy is targeting full audit compliance by fiscal year 2026, a move intended to enhance transparency and accountability within the organization. This commitment to accountability is crucial, especially in light of past criticisms regarding financial management and operational oversight.
Recruitment and Training Reforms
Cao’s initiatives also extend to recruitment and training processes. The Navy plans to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)-based waivers in favor of a merit-only approach to accessions. This decision reflects a broader debate within the military about the balance between inclusivity and operational effectiveness.
Additionally, the integration of reserve forces with active-duty training pipelines is set to improve overall readiness. This approach aims to create a more cohesive force, ensuring that all service members are adequately prepared for the challenges they may face.
Infrastructure Upgrades and Strategic Focus
Infrastructure improvements are also on the agenda, particularly in Guam, which serves as a critical hub for U.S. military operations in the Indo-Pacific region. Upgrades to runways, fuel capacity, and housing are intended to bolster the island’s strategic importance, enhancing the Navy’s ability to project power in a region increasingly characterized by geopolitical tensions.
Cao’s reforms are not just about immediate changes; they represent a long-term vision for the Navy and Marine Corps. “These aren’t talking points, they’re timelines,” Cao stated, emphasizing the urgency of the reforms. His initiatives aim to unify family welfare and combat readiness under a single command structure, which Phelan describes as “one quarterback, one playbook.”
Congressional Support and Oversight
The reforms have garnered bipartisan support on Capitol Hill. Rep. Jack Whitfield, R-Texas, chair of the House Armed Services readiness panel, expressed Congress’s commitment to supporting the Navy’s renewed focus on lethality and accountability. A Democratic staffer on the Senate Armed Services Committee described the changes as “an overdue reset,” indicating a willingness to closely monitor the outcomes of these initiatives.
Conclusion
As the U.S. Navy embarks on this ambitious overhaul under the leadership of Hung Cao, the focus on modernization, accountability, and readiness is more critical than ever. The reforms aim to address longstanding issues while fostering a culture of excellence and operational effectiveness. With the support of Congress and a clear vision for the future, the Navy and Marine Corps are poised to strengthen their capabilities in an increasingly complex global landscape. The success of these initiatives will ultimately depend on their implementation and the commitment of all service members to uphold the standards that define the U.S. military.
