DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY
OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS
2000 NAVY PENTAGON
WASHINGTON, DC 20350-2000
OPNAVINST 1520.43C
N00F
30 Sep 2021
OPNAV INSTRUCTION 1520.43C
From: Chief of Naval Operations
Subj: NAVY FLAG OFFICER DEVELOPMENT
Ref: (a) A Design for Maintaining Maritime Superiority
(b) FRAGO 01/2019: A Design for Maintaining Maritime Superiority
(c) Navy Leader Development Framework
(d) Chief of Naval Operations Flag Officer Management Policy Statement
(e) SECNAV M-5210.1
1. Purpose. To provide guidance on Navy flag officer development.
2. Cancellation. OPNAVINST 1520.43B.
3. Scope and Applicability. Executive development is a strategic investment in the future
leadership of the Navy. This instruction applies to all Flag Officers and delineates the structure
and governance of flag officer development.
4. Policy. Per references (a) through (e), the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) directs the
strategic objectives for executive development. Those objectives of flag officer development
will be assessed and implemented not only by assignments, mentoring and self-education but
also by a continuum of both required and nominative executive courses in addition to executive
coaching opportunities.
5. Responsibilities.
a. CNO establishes the strategic objectives for flag officer development.
b. The Vice Chief of Naval Operations (VCNO) supports the CNO and the execution of flag
officer development.
c. Deputy Chief of Naval Operations (Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education)
(OPNAV N1) is responsible for this instruction and is the resource sponsor as the Chief of Naval
Personnel (CNP). Responsibilities include:
(1) Provide oversight of flag officer development.
(2) Publish, annually, the executive development program opportunities.
