Hagel: Budget cuts put US missions 'at risk'
New US Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel said the budget cuts due to go into effect later today will put the Pentagon's missions "at risk".
Speaking at his first Pentagon news conference, Hagel said, "This uncertainty puts at risk our ability to effectively fulfil all of our missions".
He also announced that the US Navy would gradually stand down four air wings and the Air Force would immediately cut flying hours.
However, Hagel said his department was determined to maintain the world's best fighting force.
More top news
Compensation decision on soldier killed in Iraq due
The family of a Tamworth soldier killed in Iraq will find out tomorrow if they can sue the government for compensation.
Equipment worth millions set to return from Afghanistan
The Ministry of Defence has been explaining how it will bring home millions of pounds worth of equipment from Afghanistan.
Reckless bankers could face jail under new proposals
The Banking Commission says that senior bankers at state owned banks who are guilty of reckless actions should go to jail.