AP interview with a top Navy leader reveals distinctive details on his efforts to shift aircraft carrier strategy

By Konstantin Toropin

Konstantin Toropin’s track record of fair and accurate reporting secured the only sit-down interview by a mainstream news outlet with Adm. Daryl Caudle, the U.S. Navy’s top uniformed officer, to discuss his strategic vision for the sea service.

In the interview, Caudle told The Associated Press he envisions a smaller, more tailored U.S. military presence in the Caribbean as part of a broader effort to rely less on aircraft carriers during crises. He also discussed how elements of the strategy could be applied in the Arctic.

Toropin’s reporting illuminated how some senior U.S. military leaders are pursuing strategic shifts that may at times diverge from the more forceful deployments favored by President Donald Trump, who has sent aircraft carriers to project power in the Caribbean and the Middle East.

Judges highlighted the exclusive access, depth of questioning and clarity in explaining a complex strategic shift.