The US Department of Defense (DoD) has released interim guidance to implement a policy for transgender people serving in the military.

The guidance has been issued under the direction of US President Donald J. Trump’s memorandum.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

It will provide information about accessions, medical care and treatment, and in-service transition for transgender service members.

The interim guidance will be in effect until 21 February 2018.

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis stated: “Consistent with military effectiveness and lethality, budgetary constraints and applicable law, the implementation plan will establish the policy, standards and procedures for transgender individuals serving in the military.

"The implementation plan will establish the policy, standards and procedures for transgender individuals serving in the military."

“To comply with the presidential memorandum, ensure the continued combat readiness of the force and [to] maximise flexibility in the development of the implementation plan, the … interim guidance … will remain in effect until I promulgate DoD’s final policy in this matter.”

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

During the interim period, the policy that prohibits the accession of transgender individuals into the military services will remain in effect.

The current service members who receive a gender dysphoria diagnosis from a military medical provider will continue to receive treatment for the diagnosed medical condition.

However, no new sex reassignment surgical procedures for military personnel will be permitted after 22 March 2018 ‘except to protect the health of an individual who has already begun a course of treatment to reassign his or her gender’, the DoD stated.

Army Technology Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Army Technology Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact across the defence sector.

Excellence in Action
SMARTSHOOTER’s SMASH AI-enabled fire control systems are turning standard rifles into precision counter drone and small arms platforms. Discover how SMASH is redefining dismounted force protection, accuracy, and ethical AI use on today’s battlefield and why it has won the Innovation award.

Discover the Impact