The U.S. Army is reducing its force size by approximately 24,000, or nearly 5%, and undergoing restructuring to enhance its readiness for the next major conflict.

This move comes in response to challenges in recruiting, preventing the fulfillment of all available positions with soldiers.

The reductions primarily affect vacant positions rather than current personnel, especially those related to counterinsurgency roles that became prominent during the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts but are less in demand today.

Approximately 3,000 of the cuts will be from Army special operations forces, the Associated Press reported.

Simultaneously, the plan involves adding approximately 7,500 troops in crucial roles, such as air defense and counter-drone units, along with establishing five new task forces globally equipped with enhanced cyber, intelligence, and long-range strike capabilities.

Army Secretary Christine Wormuth, alongside Gen. Randy George, the Army chief, focused on consolidating positions with empty or surplus slots in their effort.

Written by B.C. Begley