YOKOSUKA NAVAL BASE, Japan – A senior Pacific Fleet official known for his blunt assessment of China has been reassigned following an investigation into mishandling of classified information.

Capt. James Fanell, formerly the Hawaii-based command’s top intelligence officer, is now working as an aide at fleet headquarters, Navy spokesman Capt. Darryn James said Thursday.

James declined to provide specifics on Fanell’s removal, citing privacy concerns.

However, a defense official who requested anonymity because he was not authorized to speak on the record said Fanell was removed because he had inappropriately disclosed classified information.

The Pacific Fleet investigation also raised concerns of a negative climate in Fanell’s office, the defense official said.

Fanell’s views first gained attention in 2013 at the U.S. Naval Institute West conference, during which he stated that the Chinese PLA Navy’s expansion was focused on sinking an opposing fleet and was largely about countering the U.S. Navy.

At the same conference this year, Fanell’s assessment that China is gathering the capability to fight Japan in a “short, sharp war” made it to Fox News, The New York Times and several international news outlets.

Fanell’s previous outspoken views on China led to speculation that he was removed because of them – a claim Pacific Fleet officials strongly denied Thursday.

“Capt. Fanell’s internal reassignment on Oct. 31 was in no way related to his views on China,” James said. “Any reporting that implies such speculation is not only inaccurate, it is wholly misleading and irresponsible. It is not true.”

The Navy typically releases decisions about removals only when commanding officers, executive officers and command master chief petty officers are involved, or when a crime has been committed.

“This policy protects their privacy and shields them from unwarranted public scrutiny,” James said.

Since Fanell filled none of those positions, the Navy made no official announcement. However, other media reports and speculation over the nature of the removal led Pacific Fleet officials to respond Thursday, James said.

Fanell declined a Stars and Stripes request for comment through a Navy spokesman.

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