US President Donald Trump has nominated Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao for the permanent position.
Trump announced the nomination on September 1 through his Truth Social platform. He urged the US Senate to confirm Cao quickly so he can continue his work at the Department of the Navy.
Trump praised Cao as a “true warrior” and said patriots like him are suited to lead the US Navy and Marine Corps.
Cao Has Served as Acting Navy Secretary
Cao has served as Acting Secretary of the Navy since April 2026. He took over the role after former Navy Secretary John Phelan left the Trump administration.
Before becoming acting secretary, Cao served as Under Secretary of the Navy. He was confirmed by the Senate for that position in October 2025.
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Cao is a US Navy veteran with 25 years of military service. His career included special operations, diving and explosive ordnance disposal duties. He also served in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Shipbuilding a Key Priority
Following Trump’s announcement, Cao said leading the Navy and Marine Corps would be one of the greatest honors of his life.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the US military. In particular, he has focused on accelerating shipbuilding and improving the Navy’s ability to meet national defense requirements.
Trump’s nomination now moves to the Senate. Cao will need Senate confirmation before he can formally take the position on a permanent basis.
The nomination comes as the US Navy faces major operational demands and wider concerns over military readiness amid ongoing US involvement in the conflict with Iran.
