Hegseth Plans Major Pentagon Restructuring, Cutting 20% of Senior Military Roles

Defense Secretary Hegseth to cut 20% of senior military positions in major Pentagon restructuring. Details on the impact and reactions.

Editorial Desk

October 1, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Washington, D.C. — Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to announce a sweeping reduction in high-ranking military positions during his State of the Force address, targeting a 20% cut in general and flag officer roles, according to a report.

The move, outlined in a September memo obtained by Fox News, marks a significant expansion from last year’s 10% reduction and aims to shift focus toward operational efficiency. The changes are expected to take effect by January 1, 2027, as part of a broader effort to emphasize “less generals, more GIs.”

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Hegseth has faced criticism from both sides of the aisle, with Senator Jack Reed calling the moves “reckless” and warning that the cuts could strain an already overburdened military. Meanwhile, Republican Senator Susan Collins expressed concerns about the impact on promotions and diversity within the ranks. The secretary’s approach has drawn scrutiny, particularly as he seeks to push through a $1.5 trillion budget request for 2027.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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