Hegseth Orders Uniform Standards for Men and Women in Combat Roles
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has issued a directive to implement uniform physical fitness standards for men and women in combat roles within the U.S. military.
In a significant policy shift, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has signed a memo mandating that the U.S. military adopt the same physical fitness standards for both men and women serving in combat roles. The announcement was made public on Monday, following Hegseth’s return from a diplomatic visit to Japan. He emphasized the necessity of these changes, stating, “For far too long, we allowed standards to slip, and different standards for men and women in combat arms MOS’s and jobs. That’s not acceptable.
The memo, which aims to enhance military readiness and lethality, directs the Secretaries of the Military Departments to develop comprehensive plans to distinguish between combat and non-combat roles. It stresses the importance of setting clear, mission-focused standards that reflect the physical demands of various military roles. Hegseth’s directive specifically requires that all entry-level and sustained physical fitness requirements within combat arms positions be sex-neutral, based solely on the operational demands of the occupation.
This move is part of a broader initiative by Hegseth to restore what he describes as the “warrior ethos” within the military. Earlier this month, he ordered a review of military fitness and grooming standards, signaling his intent to reverse policies he views as “woke” and not aligned with the military’s core mission. Hegseth’s commitment to high, uncompromising standards was reiterated in a January 25 memo to service members, where he emphasized the importance of unity and shared purpose in the military’s strength.
While in Japan, Hegseth also announced plans to upgrade the U.S. military command in the country, highlighting Japan’s role as an indispensable partner in deterring Chinese aggression. This aligns with the Trump administration’s strategy to strengthen ties with allies in the Indo-Pacific region to maintain peace and security.
Hegseth’s latest directive on combat role standards is a clear indication of his administration’s focus on enhancing military effectiveness and readiness, reflecting a broader effort to reestablish deterrence and rebuild the military’s warrior ethos.