Army to Relocate 6,500 Junior Officers Voluntarily by 2027

The military is set to relocate 6,500 junior officers and warrant officers from the aviation field, aiming to complete this process by fiscal 2027. The goal is to achieve this without forcing many troops out of the service, focusing on voluntary transfers and career counseling.

To facilitate this transition, talent panels have been established. These panels will assess soldiers' records and categorize them into top, middle, and bottom thirds. Those in the bottom third will be considered 'at risk' and encouraged to explore other options within the military. Targeted force reduction goals by year group are 'in the dozens' and are expected to be achieved through voluntary transfers.

The military is planning to overstaff attack battalions to the maximum allowable level for Apache squadrons. Soldiers in targeted populations will be counseled about their goals and options within the military. The cuts reflect the rise of unmanned aviation and military force restructuring, including the elimination of cavalry squadrons within the continental U.S.

The military's aviation reduction plan aims to be completed by fiscal 2027, with a focus on keeping decision-making power with the soldiers. While no specific information is available about the class of 2025, the FY26 Voluntary Transfer Incentive Program (VTIP) opportunity is scheduled to be announced in late fall 2025, with applications opening in early January 2026.