Hegseth Doubles Senior Officer Cuts to 20% in Major Pentagon Restructuring
War Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to announce a 20% reduction in billets for generals and admirals during his State of the Force address on September 30, 2026. This move doubles the 10% cut ordered in 2025 and aims to streamline command structures by shifting authority to lower ranks. The reductions, which apply to positions rather than specific individuals, must be completed by January 1, 2027, with some roles downgraded to allow colonels and captains to fill them.