Pentagon Cancels Classified Access for Ex-air Force Chief Kendall

WHO:

ABC News - Frank Kendall, former U.S. Air Force Secretary

ABC News - President Donald Trump

ABC News - President Joe Biden

ABC News - Sean Parnell, Chief Pentagon spokesman

ABC News - Justice Department

WHAT:

ABC News - The Pentagon revoked Frank Kendall's eligibility to access classified information.

ABC News - Kendall has been barred from holding any sensitive position.

ABC News - The Pentagon alleged that Kendall disclosed sensitive information about Air Force One's capabilities to the media.

ABC News - The new Air Force One underwent a $400 million retrofit and upgrade.

ABC News - A Massachusetts Air National Guard member was sentenced to 15 years in prison in 2024 for leaking classified military documents.

WHERE:

ABC News - The Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

ABC News - Air Force One, used domestically and internationally, including Turkey.

WHEN:

ABC News - The Pentagon's action occurred following reporting last month.

ABC News - Trump flew on the new Air Force One to Turkey last month.

ABC News - The Justice Department withdrew subpoenas last month after criticism from a judge.

WHY:

ABC News - The Pentagon's action was based on allegations of Kendall disclosing sensitive information.

ABC News - Concerns were raised over the new Air Force One lacking advanced antimissile capabilities compared to its predecessor.

HOW:

ABC News - The Pentagon's decision to revoke access is described as a response to violations of trust regarding classified information.

ABC News - The Justice Department attempted to compel reporters to reveal sources related to the sensitive information disclosure.

(UPDATED August 8, 2026 05:38 UTC)

The Pentagon has revoked Frank Kendall's eligibility to access classified information, barring him from holding any sensitive position due to allegations that he disclosed details about Air Force One's capabilities to the media. This decision follows concerns regarding the new Air Force One, which recently underwent a $400 million retrofit, lacking advanced antimissile capabilities compared to its predecessor. In a related note, a Massachusetts Air National Guard member was sentenced to 15 years in prison in 2024 for leaking classified military documents, highlighting ongoing issues with the handling of sensitive information.