World · Malaysia Bureau
US Defence Secretary Plans to Cut High-Ranking Military Posts by Fifth
Pete Hegseth, the newly appointed US Defence Secretary, intends to reduce Pentagon positions traditionally reserved for generals and admirals by approximately 20 per cent. The initiative would allow lower-ranking officers, including Army colonels and Navy captains, to assume roles previously held only by senior military leadership.
LSN Malaysia ·
The restructuring reflects Hegseth's emphasis on physical fitness and operational capability as the primary criteria for advancement within the Department of Defence. By broadening eligibility requirements beyond traditional rank-based promotions, the Pentagon aims to identify qualified personnel based on performance metrics rather than seniority alone.
Under the proposed changes, military officers at colonel and captain ranks would become eligible for positions that have historically been the domain of general and flag officers. This shift could accelerate career progression for capable mid-level commanders while potentially reducing overhead costs associated with maintaining senior-level positions.
The move represents a significant departure from conventional military hierarchy protocols established over decades. The Defence Department has not yet specified which positions would be affected or provided a timeline for implementation of the 20 per cent reduction.
Defence officials have indicated that the restructuring aims to enhance operational efficiency and ensure that qualified officers can advance based on merit and demonstrated competence. The initiative aligns with broader efforts within the Pentagon to modernise personnel management practices and improve organisational effectiveness across all service branches.