Reports of sexual assault in the military declined for third straight year, Pentagon says

Updated on: August 21, 2026 / 7:16 PM EDT / CBS News

Reports of sexual assault in the military declined for third straight year, Pentagon says

TL;DR

  • Official reports of sexual assault in the military decreased in fiscal year 2025.
  • Estimated sexual assaults also declined, with fewer active duty women and men reporting unwanted sexual contact.
  • This marks the second consecutive survey showing a decrease in prevalence.
  • The rate of reporting sexual assaults increased to 33% in fiscal year 2025, up from 25% in 2023.
  • The Pentagon encourages increased reporting to connect victims with care and hold offenders accountable.
  • Sexual assault and harassment are seen as undermining core military values like dignity, respect, and discipline.