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FIRST ON FOX: The Navy is taking bold steps to cut red tape and sharpen its focus on the fight.

A new memo signed by Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan orders a 35% cut to civilian Public Affairs Officer (PAO) billets and moves all hiring and contracting decisions under tighter control.

Leaders say the goal is to make the force leaner, faster and more disciplined while saving taxpayer money.

"The memo was signed with the intent to make a more lethal and agile force, placing the most capable people in the right positions to support the warfighter," a Navy official told Fox News Digital on background. "It seeks to prioritize warfighting readiness, reinforce standards and discipline, as well as accelerate decision-making.

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