Pentagon revokes Frank Kendall's access to classified information over Air Force One leak

In the United States, the Pentagon revoked former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall's access to classified information due to an unauthorized disclosure regarding Air Force One's capabilities. Chief Pentagon Spokesperson Sean Parnell announced the decision, which is effective immediately and bars Kendall from holding any sensitive position. The specific details of the leak were not disclosed, but the Pentagon emphasized the importance of safeguarding classified information.

Pentagon revokes Frank Kendall's access to classified information over Air Force One leak
7 sources
politics Updated Aug 8, 2026 First published Aug 7, 2026

Topic overview

In brief

  • The Pentagon revoked Frank Kendall's access to classified information due to an unauthorized disclosure.
  • The disclosure involved sensitive information about Air Force One's capabilities shared with a media outlet.
  • This action reflects ongoing concerns about the handling of classified information and press freedom.

Summary

In the United States, the Pentagon announced the revocation of former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall's eligibility to access classified information due to an alleged unauthorized disclosure regarding Air Force One's capabilities. This decision was made public by Chief Pentagon Spokesperson Sean Parnell, who stated that the action was effective immediately and also barred Kendall from holding any sensitive position. The unauthorized disclosure reportedly involved sensitive information shared with a media outlet, although the specific details of the leak were not disclosed. The Pentagon emphasized the importance of safeguarding classified information, stating that those who violate this trust forfeit their privileges.

The decision to revoke Kendall's access comes amid ongoing concerns about the handling of classified information within the government. The Pentagon has been under scrutiny for its management of leaks to the media, leading to increased restrictions on press access to certain areas. This situation has raised questions about the balance between national security and press freedom, particularly in light of recent legal actions taken against journalists who reported on sensitive topics related to Air Force One.

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Updated Aug 8, 2026

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