The Department of Defense revoked former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall's classified-access privileges after naming him the source of media disclosures about the security shortcomings of a Qatari‑gifted Boeing 747‑8 intended for use as Air Force One. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said the action withdraws Kendall's eligibility to hold sensitive positions. Kendall told CNN upgrades would take "three to four years," while The New York Times reported the jet lacked antimissile defenses. The episode prompted denials from former President Trump and subpoenas for New York Times journalists.
Former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall Loses Security Clearance After Alleged Air Force One Leak
The Defense Department on Friday revoked Frank Kendall's access to classified information, accusing the former secretary of the Air Force of leaking sensitive information to the press. File Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Defense on Friday revoked former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall's eligibility to access classified information, saying he was the source of a media disclosure about the presidential plane donated by Qatar.
What the Pentagon Says
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell identified Kendall as the person who told reporters that the Qatari‑gifted Boeing 747‑8 lacked certain security capabilities. Parnell said the department had revoked Kendall's "eligibility for access to classified information and his ability to hold any sensitive position."
"This action follows his unauthorized disclosure of classified information regarding Air Force One's capabilities to a media outlet," Parnell wrote on X. "Safeguarding classified information is a non-negotiable duty. Those who violate that trust forfeit the privilege of access and any role requiring it."
Kendall's Remarks
Kendall, a lawyer and engineer who served as U.S. secretary of the Air Force from 2021 to 2025, told CNN that bringing the new jet up to the standards expected of Air Force One would take "three to four years."
Background
The New York Times first reported that the Boeing 747‑8, a reportedly $400 million gift from Qatar, lacked advanced defensive systems such as antimissile capabilities and had not been fully upgraded to the level required for the president's primary aircraft even after retrofitting efforts.
Reactions And Follow-Up
Former President Trump denied the Times report and called for the prosecution of leakers. Days later, he said the plane would be taken out of service to be "maxed out," an acknowledgment that additional upgrades were planned. The Trump administration also subpoened four New York Times journalists in connection with the reporting.
Implications
The department's action removes Kendall's ability to access classified information and likely precludes him from serving in positions that require such access. The move underscores the Pentagon's stance that unauthorized disclosures of classified material have professional consequences. Further administrative or legal developments related to the disclosures and subpoenas may follow.
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