Pentagon Slashes Workforce Amid Civilian Cuts

The Defence Department plans to cut 5,400 probationary workers and impose a hiring freeze as part of efforts to streamline operations and enhance military readiness. This decision is in line with President Trump's agenda to reduce federal employees and prioritize budget efficiency, with similar reductions at other federal agencies.

The Defence Department has announced a significant reduction in its civilian workforce, planning to cut 5,400 probationary employees starting next week. Alongside these cuts, a hiring freeze will be implemented as the department aims to enhance efficiency by aligning with President Trump's priorities.

This move follows a visit from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) officials to the Pentagon, during which lists of probationary employees were obtained. These employees, who typically have less than a year of service and lack civil service protections, will not include uniformed military personnel, who are exempt from these changes.

In a statement, Acting Undersecretary of Defence for Personnel and Readiness, Darin Selnick, emphasized the department's goal to focus on efficiency. Recent trends show the Trump administration reducing workforce numbers across multiple federal agencies, including planned reductions at the Internal Revenue Service, as part of a broader strategy supported by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth to optimize budget allocations for military priorities.