US defense chief orders Pentagon to cut number of senior generals by 20%
'More generals and admirals does not lead to more success,' says Pete Hegseth
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegset
WASHINGTON
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Monday ordered a 20% reduction in the number of active-duty four-star generals and admirals in the US military.
"More generals and admirals does not lead to more success.
"This is not a slash and burn exercise meant to punish high-ranking officers. Nothing could be further from the truth," Hegseth said in a video posted on X.
According to the memo, there will also be a minimum 20% reduction in the number of general officers in the National Guard and an additional 10% reduction among general and flag officers across the military.
Hegseth said the goal was "maximizing strategic readiness."
"Through these measures, we will uphold our position as the most lethal fighting force in the world, achieving peace through strength and ensuring greater efficiency, innovation and preparedness for any challenge that lies ahead," the memo said.
