Let’s raise a periscope or two with this announcement—President Donald Trump has nominated financier John Phelan to be the next Secretary of the Navy. Yes, you heard that right. A man whose closest encounter with naval operations might be his yacht club membership is now poised to helm the United States Navy.

Phelan, the co-founder of MSD Capital and head of Rugger Management LLC, has made a name for himself in the world of high finance. He’s also known for his philanthropic endeavors, serving on the board of Spirit of America, a nonprofit supporting U.S. troops abroad. Admirable, certainly. But does managing a hedge fund and hosting charity galas prepare one for overseeing a global maritime force?

Critics are already sounding the alarm. They point out that Phelan lacks any military experience—a notable departure from tradition. Historically, the role of Navy Secretary has been filled by individuals with substantial defense or military backgrounds. The concern is that Phelan’s business acumen, while impressive, may not translate to the complex and often precarious world of military operations.

But let’s not be too hasty. Perhaps a fresh perspective is exactly what the Navy needs. The service is currently grappling with a myriad of challenges, from an overstretched fleet to the ever-looming threat of Chinese naval expansion. A leader with a keen eye for efficiency and a knack for strategic investment could potentially steer the ship in a new and prosperous direction.

Supporters argue that Phelan’s outsider status might be his greatest asset. Unencumbered by the entrenched bureaucratic norms of the Pentagon, he could bring innovative solutions to longstanding problems. His experience in managing large organizations and navigating complex financial landscapes could prove invaluable in optimizing the Navy’s budget and resources.

Moreover, Phelan’s close ties to the Trump administration suggest that he would have the ear of the President—a connection that could facilitate swift decision-making and policy implementation. In a time when the Navy must rapidly adapt to evolving global threats, such agility could be a game-changer.

Of course, the proof will be in the pudding—or perhaps in this case, the seaworthiness of the vessel. Phelan will need to quickly familiarize himself with the intricacies of naval operations and build rapport with military leaders who may be skeptical of his appointment. His success will depend on his ability to balance his business sensibilities with the unique demands of military leadership.

In the end, only time will tell if John Phelan is the right man for the job. His nomination represents a bold gamble—one that could either pay off handsomely or result in a maritime misadventure. As the Senate prepares for confirmation hearings, the nation will be watching closely to see if this financier can truly navigate the stormy seas of the United States Navy.