Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth delivered a speech to U.S. service members at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, sharply criticizing diversity initiatives, transgender troops, and the news media while outlining several modernization efforts. The address, labeled the “State of the Force” speech, took place amid ongoing military operations and morale challenges, particularly related to the protracted conflict with Iran.
Hegseth’s remarks, delivered to approximately 600 troops, emphasized cultural concerns within the military. He dismissed diversity efforts as a distraction, stating that unity—not diversity—is crucial during times of conflict. He also disparaged elite universities for promoting critical race theory, which explores the intersection of race and legal systems, accusing these institutions of undermining traditional American values. Instead, he advocated partnerships with universities such as Louisiana State University, Liberty University, and Tuskegee University to cultivate future leaders grounded in Western civilization principles, citing the faith of Jerusalem, the philosophy of Athens, the power of Rome, and the freedom embodied in Philadelphia in 1776.
Despite the cultural tone, Hegseth announced a range of modernization initiatives. Among them is the creation of a new autonomous warfare four-star combatant command aimed at advancing robotic and autonomous systems across military branches. He also mentioned plans to solicit proposals for what he termed the “next great American base” and the launch of a collaborative study with SpaceX CEO Elon Musk to identify future warfare technologies.
Throughout the speech, Hegseth maintained a combative stance toward the media, labeling journalists “anti-American losers” and accusing U.S. news outlets of making Iranian state media appear credible. This came even as the Pentagon continues grappling with public unease over the war with Iran, which has lasted over seven months and resulted in thousands of Iranian and at least 18 American casualties. The conflict’s extended duration has strained service members, notably those aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group, who have reported poor conditions and low morale during a record-long deployment that included eight suicide attempts.
Hegseth, a former infantry officer in the Iraq War and ex-Fox News host, positioned himself as closely connected to frontline troops, highlighting a recently announced 20% reduction in senior officer positions as a means to change military culture. He framed the military as moving away from what he described as a “woke” and “weak” mindset toward a unit defined by unwavering lethality and traditional warrior values.
The event began with a group workout on the Pentagon parade field, where Hegseth joined service members wearing matching T-shirts emblazoned with “This is War,” underscoring his message of military readiness and cultural transformation. General Dan Caine, chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, provided introductory remarks before inviting Hegseth to the podium. Unlike the previous year’s event, which featured former President Donald Trump, Trump did not attend the 2026 iteration, although a book distributed to attendees included a foreword written by him.