U.S. Navy updates as of September 10, 2025:

Navy Welcomes 17th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, John Perryman

The U.S. Navy officially welcomed John Perryman as its 17th Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON), the highest enlisted position. The ceremony held at the United States Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C., recognized Perryman’s extensive leadership experience and his role representing enlisted personnel across the fleet to senior Navy leadership.

House Passes $893 Billion Defense Authorization Bill

The U.S. House of Representatives approved a $893 billion defense policy bill, encompassing large budget increases for personnel pay, benefits, and military end strength. The bill includes reforms aimed at accelerating the defense acquisition process, speeding the deployment of new Navy technologies and systems to maintain lethality and readiness, focusing on deterring peer adversaries.

Anduril Proposes Ghost Shark XLUUV to U.S. Navy

Defense contractor Anduril has pitched its Ghost Shark Extra Large Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (XLUUV) to the U.S. Navy, offering expanded capabilities for underwater intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and mine countermeasures. This represents the Navy’s increasing reliance on autonomous maritime systems to enhance operational reach and effectiveness.

U.S. Navy Engages Aerospace Giants for Carrier-Based Loyal Wingman Drones

The Navy selected four aerospace companies to develop carrier-based “Loyal Wingman” drones designed to operate alongside manned aircraft on aircraft carriers. These drones aim to expand the Navy’s tactical capabilities with low-cost, networked unmanned systems supporting strike, electronic warfare, and reconnaissance roles.

Additional Developments

Navy is seeking a second shipyard to support its Landing Craft Utility program, expanding its capability to produce key vessels for amphibious and littoral operations.

Reports surfaced analyzing risks of past Navy SEAL missions and highlighting challenges in intelligence gathering in contested environments such as near North Korea.