WASHINGTON, May 6 (Alliance News): US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has directed a 20% reduction in the number of active-duty four-star generals and admirals, in a sweeping effort to restructure military leadership under President Donald Trump’s administration, according to a newly released Pentagon memo.
The directive also includes a 10% cut in all general and flag officers and a 20% reduction in National Guard generals. While the memo does not outline the exact method of implementation, it emphasizes eliminating “redundant force structure” and streamlining military leadership for enhanced efficiency and preparedness.
As of March 2025, the US military had 38 active four-star officers and a total of 817 generals and admirals. The highest ranks—four-star generals and admirals—are typically reserved for the most senior commanders across the services.
“Through these measures, we will uphold our position as the most lethal fighting force in the world, achieving peace through strength,” the memo reads.
The move comes amid a broader overhaul of the Pentagon’s top brass. Since his second term began in January, President Trump has removed several high-ranking officials, including General Charles “CQ” Brown, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and leaders from the Navy, Coast Guard, and National Security Agency.
Hegseth has defended the reshuffle, saying the President is appointing leaders who align with his vision. However, Democratic lawmakers have expressed alarm over what they view as the growing politicisation of the military, traditionally seen as a neutral institution.
The Pentagon has yet to provide a timeline or detailed plan for implementing the leadership reductions.
