Admiral Brad Cooper, a four-star commander, is leading President Trump's war against Iran, leveraging relationships he's spent years cultivating across the region.
Cooper, 58, has been praised by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for his leadership and focus, saying he's delivering 'no-nonsense, results-driven warfighting.'
Operation Epic Fury has seen the US strike over 5,500 targets, sink more than 60 Iranian ships, and smash Tehran's ballistic missiles and drone programs.
Despite public polling showing most Americans oppose the operation, Cooper remains focused on waging the war, talking constantly with Gen. Dan Caine and squeezing in short workouts and meetings.
Those who have served alongside Cooper describe him as thoughtful, decisive, and cool under pressure, with a unique ability to build ties and create an atmosphere for collaboration.
Cooper has a long military background, having served in every theater of operations, from Africa to the Pacific, and in the Pentagon as the Navy's chief of legislative affairs.
He has also championed cutting-edge technologies to counter Iran, including the use of artificial intelligence and space tools to fight the regime.
Cooper's leadership has been tested by the conflict, with Iran managing to choke off shipping in the oil-rich Gulf, damage civilian infrastructure, and attack American air defenses and bases.
