The United States military is launching a voluntary testosterone screening and hormone replacement therapy programme for all service members aged 30 and older, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced in a video titled 'High-T Department'. The initiative, which Hegseth described as 'warmaxxing', aims to help soldiers operate at their 'absolute best' by addressing low testosterone levels.
Voluntary testing and treatment
Under the new policy, any military member above 30 can opt for a testosterone test. Those with low levels will be offered hormone replacement therapy, which is currently banned for non-medical reasons. Hegseth stressed the programme is not about 'artificial enhancement' but about long-term health. 'Taking care of your long-term health means ensuring you remain strong, resilient and capable – not just for your next deployment, but for the rest of your life, so you can thrive long after you take off the uniform,' he said.
Pentagon's stance
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said the protocol will establish a comprehensive baseline and offer targeted therapy. 'The protocol will enable the Department to establish a comprehensive baseline and offer targeted testosterone therapy, ensuring that it sustains a healthy, capable, and decisively dominant fighting force,' Parnell stated.
Broader context
Since becoming Defence Secretary, Hegseth has renamed the agency the 'Department of War' and emphasized Christian nationalism. He has also taken an aggressive stance toward press covering the Iran War. Earlier this year, Hegseth claimed the world should thank President Trump for the war's success, dismissing critics who question its length and impact.
At the war's outset, some officials told American soldiers the Iran conflict was 'God's plan' to bring about the end of the world. The Military Religious Freedom Foundation received more than 200 complaints from personnel across all branches. One complainant said their commander began a combat readiness briefing by urging troops not to fear the looming war, stating it was 'all part of God's divine plan' and referencing the Book of Revelation and Armageddon. The commander reportedly said, 'President Trump has been anointed by Jesus to light the signal fire in Iran to cause Armageddon and mark his return to Earth,' according to a copy of the email shared by journalist Jonathan Larsen.
