The Pentagon has revoked the security clearance of former U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall, barring him from accessing classified information and holding any sensitive position. The action, announced on Friday, August 8th, 2026, follows allegations that Kendall disclosed sensitive information about Air Force One's capabilities to the media.

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell stated on social media, "This action follows his unauthorized disclosure of classified information regarding Air Force One's capabilities to a media outlet."

This development comes after reports, including from The New York Times, raised security concerns about the new Air Force One aircraft gifted by Qatar, highlighting that it lacks the advanced antimissile defenses of its predecessor. The Pentagon noted that "several highly complex engineering modifications" required for the new U.S.-made Air Force One were intentionally excluded in the modifications to the Qatari-donated plane.

Kendall expressed confusion over the revocation, telling The Associated Press he was "completely mystified" and insisted, "I've always been extremely careful to not say anything classified, and as far as I know I have not." He added, "No one has said anything to me about what I'm asserted to have revealed and I can't imagine what it could be."

Kendall also said he was comfortable discussing the Qatari 747 publicly, stating, "I've been comfortable being on the record with reporters and on national television about the Qatari 747 because I'm confident that I haven't said anything classified."

According to sources briefed on the situation who spoke to CBS News, the Secret Service recommended that the president continue using the old Air Force One, which is equipped with secure communication systems and sophisticated military defenses, while the Qatari plane undergoes modifications.

The Pentagon's action draws a parallel to the Obama administration's filing of charges against Edward Snowden, a former intelligence contractor who disclosed classified surveillance documents before fleeing the country.

Sources