Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a new screening program for service members aged 30 and older to ensure they have the "right testosterone levels," according to a video posted on X.
The video, captioned "the High-T Department of War," states that addressing health markers early keeps troops on the "leading edge of lethality."
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It remains unclear whether the policy includes women, though the New York Times reported that women would also be screened for testosterone.
Hegseth has previously expressed opposition to women in combat roles but reversed that stance during his confirmation process.
Recently, he blocked promotions for seven senior Navy officers, five of whom are women or people of color, to two-star admiral rank.
The New York Times noted that this move means no female active-duty naval officers are likely to be promoted to admiral this year for the first time in over a decade.
Details on what happens if a service member has suboptimal testosterone levels have not been fully disclosed.
Hegseth's video indicates the government will offer opt-in testosterone replacement therapy, but there is no FDA-approved testosterone treatment for women, suggesting the therapy may be for men only.
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The Trump administration has previously been reluctant to spend on hormones for military troops, arguing that gender-affirming care for transgender troops is too expensive.
However, the Defense Department spends about ten times more on Viagra and erectile dysfunction medications than on healthcare for transgender troops.
The cost of Hegseth's testosterone policy is unclear, but critics note the timing is controversial given escalating tensions with Iran.
On the same day as the announcement, Iran threatened to halt Middle East energy exports as the US reimposed a blockade, and Trump warned of escalated strikes.
Critics argue that Hegseth should focus on more pressing issues, such as the ongoing war with Iran, which has cost tens of billions and shows no end in sight.
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Some commentators question Hegseth's qualifications for the role, suggesting that a focus on testosterone screening distracts from complex geopolitical and military challenges.
