Pentagon revokes former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall’s access to classified information
The Pentagon has revoked former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall's security clearance, alleging he leaked sensitive information regarding the capabilities of the new Air Force One. Kendall denies the allegations, stating he has been careful not to disclose classified details.
Why it matters
The case highlights tensions between government transparency, media reporting, and national security protocols regarding presidential assets.
The Pentagon revoked former U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall's “eligibility” to access classified information and barred him from holding “any sensitive position," alleging Friday (August 7, 2026) that he disclosed sensitive information about Air Force One's capabilities to the media.
It follows reporting last month, including from The New York Times , on security concerns over the new, Qatari-gifted Air Force One , including that it lacked the advanced antimissile capabilities of its predecessor.
Mr. Kendall told The Associated Press late Friday (August 7) that he was “completely mystified” by the revocation.
“I’ve always been extremely careful to not say anything classified, and as far as I know, I have not,” Mr. Kendall said. “No one has said anything to me about what I’m asserted to have revealed and I can’t imagine what it could be.”
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