US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Wednesday that the United States has reduced the number of its generals and admirals by 20 percent. Hegseth stated that the cuts targeted officers who failed to align with his efforts to ensure the military prioritizes war-fighting over previous "woke" policies. The reductions were described as an "accomplishment" and a necessary step towards accountability.
Hegseth made the announcement at Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia, where he addressed junior officers and enlisted personnel. He mentioned that the number of general officer slots was reduced by an additional 10 percent, on top of the 10 percent reduction in generals and admirals across the force. The Defense Secretary emphasized that the changes aim to create a more focused and disciplined military.
The move is part of a larger effort by Hegseth to overhaul the US military, which he believes had become too focused on leftist "woke" ideas and in need of a major shake-up. In a similar speech last year, Hegseth criticized the military for being "too fat" and promised a significant transformation. He stated that officers who responded positively to the previous speech are now leading "newly focused and newly empowered and disciplined formations."
Hegseth's speech highlighted the need for a more streamlined and effective military. He emphasized that the US military is no longer focused on "woke" policies, but rather on developing "tough, ready, committed troops." The Defense Secretary's comments suggest that the changes are aimed at creating a more efficient and combat-ready military.
The reduction in generals and admirals was ordered in May 2025, with a goal of cutting the overall number of top officers. However, Pentagon figures from July 2026 show that the number of active duty US generals and admirals has actually increased to 851, up from 831 in May 2025. The Pentagon did not provide further clarification on the discrepancy.
Hegseth's efforts to transform the military have been accompanied by a significant shake-up of top personnel. Several senior officers have been pushed out or have retired, including the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the heads of the US Army, Navy, and Coast Guard. Democratic lawmakers have raised concerns about the potential politicization of the traditionally neutral US military.
In addition to the cuts in generals and admirals, Hegseth announced a new project on "the future of warfare" co-led by Elon Musk. The project, called "Project Meridian," aims to study the future of warfare and identify the domains that the US military must master. The project will include private sector leaders and subject matter experts, with findings expected to be completed within 120 days.
Key points
- The US has reduced the number of generals and admirals by 20 percent, according to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
