Robert Kadlec

At a glance

Robert Kadlec is a physician and defense official whose earlier service included military medicine, counterproliferation policy, congressional staff work and leadership of HHS preparedness and response.

Summary sources: [1] [2] [3]

Career and documented accomplishments

• Graduated from the Air Force Academy, attended the Uniformed Services University medical school and served as a flight surgeon in special-operations assignments. [1] [2]
• Served in counterproliferation policy roles, including work as a U.N. weapons inspector in Iraq and teaching at the National War College. [1]
• Held White House biodefense responsibilities and later served as staff director of a Senate HELP subcommittee and deputy staff director of the Intelligence Committee. [1] [2]
• Previously served as HHS assistant secretary for preparedness and response, with medical-response responsibilities during hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic. [1]

Role and nomination context

• The April 2026 Armed Services hearing identifies Kadlec as assistant secretary for nuclear deterrence and chemical and biological defense policy and programs. [3]

Sources and review date

Career and role sources reviewed Oct 14, 2026. These sources may describe developments beyond the nomination snapshot; each nomination entry retains its recorded date and outcome.

1. Robert Kadlec nomination opening statement (PDF)

   Senate Armed Services Committee. Reviewed Oct 14, 2026.

2. Robert P. Kadlec advance policy-question responses

   Senate Armed Services Committee. Reviewed Oct 14, 2026.

3. April 2026 nuclear programs hearing witness list

   Senate Armed Services Committee. Reviewed Oct 14, 2026.