- The Pentagon revoked former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall's access to classified information on Friday, citing an unauthorized disclosure to a media outlet regarding Air Force One's capabilities.
- Kendall denied revealing any classified information, stating, “I’ve been extremely careful to not say anything that could be classified” and that no one has informed him of what he supposedly revealed.
- Kendall served as Air Force Secretary under President Biden and left office in January 2025.
- Qatar donated a new Air Force One jet to the Pentagon last year, valued at $400 million, which has raised security concerns.
- Reports last month, including in the New York Times, raised security concerns about the new jet's capabilities, which were deemed insufficient compared to older models.
- President Trump flew the new jet to Turkey for a NATO summit in July but opted to use an older plane for the return trip, raising questions about the new jet's safety.
- The Justice Department had previously subpoenaed New York Times reporters regarding the leak but later withdrew the subpoenas after facing criticism.
The Pentagon on Friday revoked former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall's eligibility for classified access following allegations of an unauthorized disclosure regarding Air Force One's capabilities. Chief Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell stated the decision was made due to Kendall's alleged leak to a media outlet.124
Kendall, who served under President Joe Biden, denied any wrongdoing, asserting, “I’ve been extremely careful to not say anything that could be classified”. He expressed confusion over the allegations, stating, “So far no one has told me what I’m supposed to have revealed.” The controversy stems from reports concerning security issues with the new Qatari-gifted Air Force One, which has been criticized for lacking advanced security features compared to older models.3
The aircraft underwent a USD 400 million retrofit and has been used for domestic travel, including a recent trip by Trump to Turkiye. However, Trump opted for an older model during a NATO summit amid rising tensions with Iran, citing security concerns. “I am under threat all the time,” Trump remarked, emphasizing the risks he faces.6
The situation escalated when the Justice Department subpoenaed New York Times reporters who covered the story, raising alarms about press freedom. The subpoenas were later withdrawn after judicial criticism of the legal process involved.9
Kendall's comments about the aircraft's readiness and safety have drawn scrutiny, with reports indicating that the time available for upgrades was insufficient for necessary modifications. The Pentagon's actions reflect ongoing tensions surrounding national security and transparency in government communications.
“Kendall, who served under Biden, told CNN he has been 'extremely careful' and that no one has told him what he supposedly revealed. The revocation follows a Justice Department probe that subpoenaed New York Times reporters, later withdrawn after criticism.”
