Adm. Caudle sworn in as chief of naval operations
Adm. Daryl Caudle was sworn in Monday as chief of naval operations, promising to accelerate the sea service’s push for AI, unmanned system and network capabilities.
The new CNO is taking the helm as the Navy works to modernize for potential conflicts against advanced adversaries, namely China.
The official swearing-in ceremony took place at Leutze Park in the Washington Navy Yard area of the nation’s capital.
In a video message to the force released on the social media platform X, Caudle highlighted the need to expand and modernize the fleet.
“A ready fleet begins in our shipyards, and I expect all of us, military and industry alike, to deliver. The readiness is more than ships and schedules. It’s the homework for how we fight. We’ll accelerate the adoption of cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, cyber tools and advanced stealth technologies to stay ahead of our competitors, and we’ll integrate our capabilities seamlessly across all domains, from seabed to space,” he said.
Caudle took the reins from Adm. James Kilby, who had been serving as acting CNO since February after President Donald Trump fired Adm. Lisa Franchetti as the Navy’s top officer without explanation.
Trump nominated Caudle, who was leading Fleet Forces Command, for the top job in June, and he was confirmed by the Senate July 31.
“It’s an honor to lead this team, a Navy that’s built on the strength, resilience and professionalism of sailors, civilians and families across the globe. This will require us to prioritize our foundry, our fleet and the way we fight, from the flight deck to the waterfront, from the wardroom to the watch floor, from our shipyards to our family support centers. You are the heart of our Navy, and … as your CNO, my top priority is putting sailors first,” Caudle said in his video message to the force. “That means investing in your development and leadership, supporting your well-being and mental health, strengthening the family support systems that allow you to serve with focus and peace of mind, and ensuring that every sailor, civilian and family member is valued, empowered and ready.”
He continued: “We also have a mission that demands our very best, and to meet it, we must be ready, not just in principle, but in practice. We will focus relentlessly on operational readiness. That means combat ready forces that can deploy rapidly and effectively around the world to deter conflict, respond to crisis, and if required, dominate in combat. In order to win decisively, we will modernize and expand the fleet to meet the demands and threats of today and tomorrow.”
