SECNAV Del Toro’s Three-Year Milestone: Key Insights from the Future Warfighting Symposium

NEWPORT, Rhode Island – On August 8, Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro delivered critical remarks at the Future Warfighting Symposium held at the Naval War College.

Addressing newly inducted students, faculty, and staff, Del Toro emphasized the need for leveraging all available resources to maintain competitiveness in modern conflicts. “We need you, our warrior scholars, at the tip of the spear, because we face existential threats and challenges in every corner of the globe,” stated Del Toro.

This year’s symposium theme, “Navigating the Future: A Summit of Geopolitical Risks,” dovetails with Del Toro’s priorities—strengthening maritime dominance, cultivating warfighting excellence, and enhancing strategic alliances.

Reflecting on his tenure, Del Toro highlighted his initiative for a new Maritime Statecraft, announced in September 2023. “Maritime Statecraft encompasses not only naval diplomacy but a comprehensive U.S. and allied maritime power, both commercial and naval,” he asserted. This strategy involves sectors like economic development, trade, education, science, innovation, and climate diplomacy to ensure global competitiveness.

Del Toro further discussed collaborative efforts with government and shipbuilding industry leaders to tackle common challenges and pursue overall improvements. He stressed the importance of readiness in this new conflict and technological era. “We must be ready to fight and prevail in this new era of conflict and technology,” he urged. “I call on each of you to continue pushing the envelope and to innovate at the speed of relevancy to ensure our competitive edge over our adversaries.”

The event also featured the portrait unveiling of Professor John Hattendorf at the Naval War College. “Professor Hattendorf, your passion for history and education has transformed countless lives. Our Navy, our Nation, and indeed our world, are better off because of your service,” said Del Toro. To future students, the portrait serves as a homage to Hattendorf’s dedication and influence. Hattendorf occupied the Ernest J. King Professorship of Maritime History from 1984 to 2016.