Defense Secretary Hegseth Announces 20% Reduction in Generals and Admirals, Establishes New Drone Command
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced significant changes to the U.S. military, including a 20% reduction in the number of generals and admirals and the establishment of a new four-star drone command. This directive doubles the 10% reduction in flag and general officer positions ordered last spring, with the total 20% decrease to be completed by January 1, 2027. Hegseth made these announcements during his 'State of the Force' address at Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia. He also revealed plans for a study on the future of warfare, to be led in part by SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and former Republican House Speaker Newt Gingrich. Additionally, the Pentagon will create an Office of Religious Affairs and plans to build a new military base, the first in 40 years, inviting all 50 states to compete to host 15,000 to 25,000 service members. These changes come as the U.S. military is seven months into a war with Iran, has captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, and conducted strikes in Latin America.
