how many 4 star generals are there

As of March 31, 2025, there were 38 four-star generals or admirals in the U.S. military. This number is part of a broader leadership structure that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth ordered to be reduced by 20% as part of an initiative to streamline military leadership. The actual numbers of four-star generals by service are approximately: 9 in the Army, 2 in the Marine Corps, 9 in the Navy (admirals equivalent rank), 12 in the Air Force, 4 in the Space Force, and 1 in the Coast Guard.