What a historic absence of its top officer means for the Navy
The Navy has never gone this long without a fully empowered chief of naval operations. Former officials and analysts say the consequences of that are stacking up by the day.
By Justin Katz and Valerie Insinna
on May 23, 2025 at 1:53 PM
Adm. Kilby Assumes Role as Vice Chief of Naval Operations
WASHINGTON — Walking in the Pentagon’s river entrance, a visitor is greeted by a series of photographs on the walls featuring the top uniformed member of the military services. But for the last 91 days, in the spot where a photo of the chief of naval operations should be, has been a black piece of paper — marking the absence of a Senate-confirmed senior Navy officer.
Earlier this month, the Navy hit an ignominious milestone: The longest stretch in the service’s history it has been without a confirmed chief of naval operations. And with the Trump administration yet to name a nominee, former Navy officials, lawmakers and experts are sounding the alarm.
“We do need a presidential nominated and Senate-confirmed CNO in place,” said Steven Wills, a naval historian and associate at the Center for Maritime Strategy. “CNO provides the course that all other Navy flags follow … They set force design priorities, make key budget decisions and set the tone for the entire service.”
https://breakingdefense.com/2025/05/what-a-historic-absence-of-its-top-officer-means-for-the-navy/
