Overview
- Phelan left the post effective immediately, and Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said Deputy Secretary Hung Cao will serve as acting Navy secretary.
- Reports from U.S. outlets, citing unnamed officials, describe strained ties with Hegseth and say Phelan was accused of bypassing the chain of command through direct access to President Trump.
- The shake-up follows Hegseth’s recent ouster of Army Chief General Randy George and two other senior Army generals, pointing to rapid turnover in top defense roles.
- Phelan had just addressed the Navy’s annual conference in Washington, where he discussed his plans for the service before his sudden exit.
- Coverage also notes disputes over shipbuilding strategy and access to the White House, raising questions for fleet expansion plans as Cao moves to maintain day-to-day continuity.