Defense Secretary Hegseth Rapidly Reshapes US Military in First 100 Days

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth assumed his role in January 2025 with a clear vision for the U.S. military. In his initial message to service members, he outlined goals to enhance the warrior ethos, rebuild the force, and bolster deterrence. Guided by President Donald Trump’s directive for peace through strength, Hegseth has driven policy changes, operational shifts, and international engagements over the past 100 days.

The approach centers on unity and high standards to maintain a disciplined, effective military. Hegseth’s swift actions, including reviews of standards, reinstatement of discharged troops, and meetings with global allies, have sparked discussions. Some view these steps as a return to core military priorities, while others question their effects on diversity and long-term readiness.

In March 2025, Hegseth launched a comprehensive review of physical fitness, body composition, and grooming standards. The goal is to ensure the military remains a highly capable fighting force. The review assesses how standards have changed over the past decade and their impact on readiness, particularly for combat roles.

New sex-neutral fitness requirements for combat positions, aligned with operational needs, will take effect with the Army Fitness Test in June 2025. Events include deadlifts, sprint-drag-carry, and a two-mile run, with minimum scores for combat roles. Many service members support the focus on mission-driven standards, but some express concerns about implementation challenges and potential exclusion of qualified personnel.

Hegseth has addressed the 2021 COVID-19 vaccine mandate, which resulted in nearly 8,000 service member separations. A January 2025 executive order reinstated those discharged, offering back pay and restored ranks. Approximately 650 Marines and soldiers have shown interest in returning, supported by ongoing outreach efforts. The policy has resonated with some veterans, though reintegration poses logistical hurdles.

Recruitment and retention have surged. By February 2025, all five military branches met their recruiting targets, with four exceeding 2024 performance. Bonuses, streamlined applications, and community engagement have driven this growth. The reenlistment of Medal of Honor recipient Dakota Meyer in April 2025 underscored the renewed appeal of service.

Hegseth has focused on enhancing deterrence through international partnerships. Since January 2025, he has met with leaders from nations like Israel, Japan, and the United Kingdom. His approval of munitions for Israel and talks with Panama to secure the Panama Canal aim to counter strategic competitors. These efforts seek to reinforce alliances while addressing regional security concerns.

During a February 2025 NATO meeting in Brussels, Hegseth reaffirmed U.S. support but encouraged European allies to increase defense budgets. The United Kingdom responded with a significant spending boost, and it led the Ukraine Defense Contact Group for the first time. These developments highlight a push for allies to share defense responsibilities, prompting discussions about alliance dynamics.

Internal reforms have targeted efficiency, with the Department of Government Efficiency identifying $6 billion in savings by eliminating non-essential programs and contracts. These funds support improved healthcare for service members and families. Simultaneously, 11,900 troops have been deployed to the U.S.-Mexico border, where new authority over a designated National Defense Area has contributed to a sharp decline in crossings.

In the Middle East, Operation Rough Rider targets Houthi attacks on shipping. Since March 2025, U.S. Central Command has conducted over 1,000 strikes in Yemen, reducing Houthi capabilities. These operations reflect the military’s commitment to homeland and global security, though they raise questions about resource demands and sustainability.

Hegseth’s reforms have generated varied perspectives. Analysts from the American Enterprise Institute commend the emphasis on lethality and merit-based policies as vital for addressing great-power competition, particularly with China. Some lawmakers express concerns that removing diversity initiatives and prioritizing a warrior ethos could hinder recruitment and challenge the military’s nonpartisan tradition. Both sides recognize the need to adapt to emerging threats.

After 100 days, Hegseth’s changes show progress in recruitment, alliances, and standards. Challenges remain, including implementing new fitness tests and sustaining global partnerships. The coming months will determine whether these reforms can prepare the military for current conflicts and future uncertainties.