Brief
US Defence Secretary Hegseth Announces 20% Cut to Generals and Admirals
Hegseth ordered a doubling of last spring's 10% reduction, targeting roughly 800 flag officers.
By Felo News Desk · Published
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth told junior officers at Marine Corps Base Quantico that the Pentagon will cut 20% of its generals and admirals, a total of about 800 flag‑officer positions, to be completed by Jan. 1, 2027.
Hegseth said the move doubles a 10% reduction ordered last spring and framed it as "accountability and long overdue." Senators Mark Kelly (D‑AZ) and Mike Rounds (R‑SD) voiced criticism, with Kelly calling the plan a "purge" that will take a generation to recover from, and Rounds asking for justification.
The announcement came as the US is seven months into a war with Iran, has captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, and has conducted strikes on alleged drug‑trafficking vessels in Latin America.
Key facts
- US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a 20% reduction of generals and admirals, about 800 positions, to be completed by Jan. 1, 2027. (independent.co.uk)
- The cut doubles a 10% reduction ordered in May 2025. (independent.co.uk)
- Senator Mark Kelly called the move a "purge" that will take a generation to recover from. (independent.co.uk)
- Senator Mike Rounds said he wants to understand the reasoning behind the decision. (independent.co.uk)
- The announcement was made at Quantico during Hegseth’s annual State of the Force address. (independent.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk
- [2] latimes.com
- [3] theguardian.com
