The US Department of Defense (Pentagon) is reportedly planning to reduce its workforce by at least 50 thousand employees. The cuts are expected to be made through freezing hiring, removing employees on probationary status, and evaluating resignation offers. It has been reported that the Pentagon plans to reduce its civilian workforce by approximately 50 to 60 thousand people, largely on a voluntary basis. ABC News, citing a senior defense official, indicated that the seemingly high number would actually translate to only a 5 to 8 percent reduction in the workforce. The decision is said to be aimed at ensuring proper allocation of resources. Those who will be terminated under this mass layoff include employees on probation with less than one or two years of service and those who accept the offer to resign with full pay until the end of September. Additionally, the report emphasizes that no new hiring will take place during this period.