Pentagon revokes former Air Force secretary's access to classified intel, citing Air Force One leak

Parnell identified the leaker of classified Air Force One information as former Biden administration Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall, though details on what the leak the spokesman is referring to was not immediately clear.

Published: August 7, 2026 7:09pm

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell announced Friday that the War Department has revoked a former Air Force secretary's eligibility for access to classified information after he allegedly shared some with a media outlet.

Parnell identified the leaker of classified Air Force One information as former Biden administration Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall, though details on what the leak the spokesman is referring to was not immediately clear.

"Effective immediately, the Department of War has REVOKED former Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall’s eligibility for access to classified information and his ability to hold any sensitive position," Parnell posted on X. 

"This action follows his unauthorized disclosure of classified information regarding Air Force One’s capabilities to a media outlet," he continued. "Safeguarding classified information is a non-negotiable duty. Those who violate that trust forfeit the privilege of access and any role requiring it."

The move comes as the War Department looks to cut down on leaks to the media by reducing press access to certain areas. War Secretary Pete Hegseth also placed a set of restrictions on reporters at the Pentagon last October, including the ability to revoke passes of reporters it designates as security risks. 

The New York Times has sued the Pentagon twice over the restrictions, alleging they violate the First Amendment right to free speech. 

The Pentagon additionally changed protocols for its media briefing room in March that relocated reporters to workspace outside the Pentagon.  

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage. 

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