Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced new policies on Monday meant to reduce the number of generals and flag officers across the military in order to address bureaucratic bloat.

Hegseth issued a memo saying that the Pentagon desires to “cultivate exceptional senior leaders who drive innovation and operational excellence, unencumbered by unnecessary bureaucratic layers that hinder their growth and effectiveness.” The policy will involve a 20% reduction in four-star positions for active-duty forces and in generals for the National Guard.

“Through these measures, we will uphold our position as the most lethal fighting force in the world, achieving peace through strength and ensuring greater efficiency, innovation, and preparedness for any challenge that lies ahead,” the brief memo from Hegseth contended.