Ex-US Air Force Chief Loses Security Clearance Over Leaks

The Pentagon has revoked the security clearance and barred former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall from sensitive positions, citing allegations of leaking classified information regarding the performance of Air Force One to the media.

This action follows media reports last month, notably by The New York Times, which highlighted security concerns with the new Air Force One, including the absence of advanced anti-missile capabilities found in the previous model. Kendall, who served under President Joe Biden, stated he was "utterly baffled" by the decision, asserting he had been "very careful" not to disclose any classified material and could not imagine what information he might have leaked.

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I have been very careful not to say anything classified, and to the best of my knowledge I have not done so. No one has told me what I am accused of leaking, and I cannot imagine what it could be.

The reports indicated that the aircraft, which underwent a $400 million refit, had security features lacking in older models. President Trump reportedly switched to an older aircraft for a departure from a NATO summit amid heightened tensions with Iran. However, Trump denied that security concerns prompted the change, though he acknowledged being under constant threat.

Kendall expressed confidence in his past interviews, stating he had spoken about the Qatar-donated Boeing 747 without revealing classified content. The Justice Department's earlier attempt to compel a New York Times reporter to reveal sources regarding the story had sparked concerns about press freedom before the subpoena was withdrawn following judicial criticism.

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I have always been comfortable being interviewed and talking about the Qatar Boeing 747 on national television because I am confident that I have not said anything classified.