The Department of Defense (DOD) announced that former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall’s eligibility for access to classified information has been revoked, along with his ability to hold any sensitive position, due to an alleged unauthorized disclosure of information about Air Force One to a media outlet.

The announcement, shared by Chief Pentagon Spokesperson Sean Parnell, said the action followed an allegation that Kendall made an unauthorized disclosure of classified information pertaining to Air Force One’s capabilities. "Safeguarding classified information is a non-negotiable duty. Those who violate that trust forfeit the privilege of access and any role requiring it," Parnell said in the post to X.

Kendall has not publicly confirmed wrongdoing, and the move comes as questions continue over the handling of classified information and government oversight.

Newsweek reached out to the DOD via email and to Kendall via online form Friday evening for comment.

Who Is Frank Kendall?

Kendall served as the 26th Secretary of the Air Force from 2021 to 2025 and spent decades in national security roles. A trained engineer and lawyer, he previously held senior positions at the DOD, including serving as Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics.

Air Force One Leak Investigation

The accusations against Kendall come amid a broader debate over press freedom after New York Times reporters were subpoenaed over their reporting on Air Force One-related stories.

The subpoenas have raised concerns among journalism advocates about protecting confidential sources and the government’s ability to investigate leaks while balancing First Amendment protections.

This is a developing story that will be updated with additional information.

Contact Newsweek editors on this story: Gray R. Thomas