His approach seems to be one of action and accountability, ensuring that the Navy is proactive in addressing its shipbuilding challenges rather than waiting for issues to escalate.
Challenges Facing the Department of the Navy
Phelan will take on the role of Secretary of the Navy during a time of transition and challenge for the department.
The Navy continues its critical deployments to the Middle East while simultaneously preparing for potential conflict in the Pacific.
Additionally, the department is grappling with delayed shipbuilding programs, a substantial backlog of maintenance work, and numerous quality-of-life issues affecting Navy personnel and their families.
In his testimony before the SASC, Phelan acknowledged these issues, highlighting concerns about the Navy’s readiness and the systemic failures that have been left unaddressed for too long.
He raised alarms about extended deployments, inadequate maintenance, cost overruns, failed audits, and the rising suicide rates within the Navy and Marine Corps. These problems underscore the urgency for comprehensive leadership and reform within the Department of the Navy.
Phelan’s appointment also comes at a time when shipbuilding programs, such as the Constellation-class frigate and the Virginia-class submarine, are of critical importance to maintaining the Navy’s operational capabilities.
He has vowed to address these priority programs and ensure that the Navy is not only modernizing its fleet but doing so in a cost-effective and timely manner.
Navy Secretary Nominee John Phelan makes it clear the threat of China and the commitment to making Navy shipbuilding ELITE!!! pic.twitter.com/WpQtF5mqKO
— DOD Rapid Response (@DODResponse) February 27, 2025
A Nontraditional Nominee in a Time of Change
While Phelan’s lack of military experience may make him a nontraditional choice for the role, his business acumen and fresh perspective are seen by some as valuable assets, particularly in a time when the Navy faces complex challenges.
Senator Tim Kaine, the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Seapower Subcommittee, expressed intrigue about what Phelan could bring to the role, noting that the Navy’s traditional structure has not always been able to resolve its persistent issues.
Phelan’s leadership will be tested as he navigates these challenges and works to modernize the Navy’s shipbuilding processes, improve quality of life for service members, and address systemic issues within the department.
Watch the full replay of the confirmation hearing below.
Looking Ahead
With Phelan confirmed, attention will now shift to his leadership style and the impact of his business-oriented approach on the Navy’s operations. His focus on shipbuilding and industrial base strengthening is in line with the Trump administration’s priorities, but it will be crucial to see how Phelan addresses the broader challenges facing the department, including its readiness, maintenance issues, and personnel concerns.
Additionally, with the announcement of retired Navy Captain Hung Cao as the second civilian leader of the Navy, the focus now turns to how Phelan and Cao will work together to implement the administration’s vision for the future of the Navy.
As Phelan steps into his new role, the Navy, along with the defense community, will be watching closely to see how his leadership will shape the future of the Department of the Navy during a time of significant transition and increasing global threats.
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