The findings of the Pentagon’s internal review of the US military’s nuclear enterprise are due to Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel by the end of April, according to a memorandum that Hagel issued last week. Further, Hagel asked the two retired general officers leading the independent review of nuclear forces to commence their work on March 3 and report their findings to Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Martin Dempsey and him by June 2, according to a second memo. The Pentagon released both Hagel memos, dated Feb. 10, on Feb 14. Hagel ordered the two reviews after allegations of cheating on nuclear-related exams in the Air Force and Navy came to light earlier this year. Madelyn Creedon, assistant secretary of defense for global strategic affairs, and Rear Adm. Pete Fanta of the Joint Staff are overseeing the internal review, which is already underway. Retired Gen. Larry Welch, former Air Force Chief of Staff, and retired Adm. John Harvey, former head of Fleet Forces Command, are conducting the independent assessment.
Air Force Changes Rules for Pregnant Aircrew—Again
April 3, 2025
The Air Force is changing its policy for pregnant aircrew, generally reverting to rules set in 2019 that barred female aviators from flying during the first trimester—or from flying in aircraft with ejection seats at all—due to potential risks to the pilot and her unborn fetus.