NAVWAR Welcomes Rear Adm. Okano as New Commander After Rear Adm. Small’s Illustrious Retirement

Vice Adm. John Wade, commander of the Third Fleet, presided over a momentous ceremony, highlighting the appointment of Rear Adm. Nancy Okano as the new NAVWAR Commander. “This is the fourth time Rear Adm. Okano follows Rear Adm. Small’s footsteps,” Wade emphasized. “No one is better suited to sustain and build upon his momentum with NAVWAR.”

Originally from Evanston, Illinois, Okano is a distinguished graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy with a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering. She furthered her studies with a master’s in space systems engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School. Her career spans numerous operational tours, including roles on the USS Belleau Wood (LHA-3) and at Amphibious Force 7th Fleet in Japan. Notably, she contributed to Operation Iraqi Freedom in Tikrit, Iraq, focusing on defeating radio-controlled improvised explosive devices.

Okano’s acquisition experience is equally impressive. She served with the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center in San Diego, the Missile Defense Agency, Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System, and other critical positions. Her most recent role was as program executive officer for Integrated Warfare Systems in Washington, D.C.

“This is an opportunity of a lifetime to lead this exceptional organization,” Okano declared. “We must deliver and sustain superior Information Warfare capabilities to enable our Navy to succeed in the information age.”

As NAVWAR Commander, Okano will oversee a team of 11,000 civilian and military personnel tasked with designing, developing, and deploying advanced communications and information systems. She will also spearhead Project Overmatch, an initiative focused on rapid integration systems and a new naval operating architecture.

An economic impact report from the San Diego Military Advisory Council and the University of San Diego Knauss School of Business estimated NAVWAR’s regional economic contribution at between $3.14 to $3.38 billion for fiscal year 2022. The organization has significantly boosted local employment, credited with creating over 18,000 jobs. Additionally, NAVWAR has been recognized as San Diego’s top cyber employer by the Cyber Center of Excellence, employing nearly 3,500 professionals in the cybersecurity field.

“Our mission thrives because of the dedicated team at NAVWAR,” Okano noted. “By strengthening partnerships across military branches, allies, and the private sector, we can stay ahead of emerging threats.”

After a nearly 40-year Navy career, Rear Adm. Small officially retired, leaving behind a legacy of workforce empowerment and innovation. Under his leadership, NAVWAR was named the No. 1 place to work in the Navy, a testament to his focus on employee engagement. He initiated Project Overmatch at the behest of the Chief of Naval Operations, enhancing the Navy’s capabilities.

“The maritime domain’s importance is growing, necessitating our Navy’s strength,” Wade remarked. He lauded Small for his leadership and technical expertise, which culminated in the delivery of advanced systems.

Wade presented Small with the Distinguished Service Medal, honoring his exceptional service as NAVWAR commander. This accolade recognized his groundbreaking leadership and was conferred on behalf of the President and the Secretary of the Navy.

Small expressed gratitude towards the NAVWAR team. “It’s been my honor to serve as your commander,” he said. “Rear Adm. Okano will lead you well, and I eagerly anticipate your continued achievements.”

About NAVWAR:

NAVWAR develops and sustains information warfare capabilities that support naval, joint, coalition, and national missions. Their team comprises over 11,000 civilian, active duty, and reserve professionals globally.