"It is remarkable to what great lengths Hegseth went to use the Signal app, because as defense secretary he has his own communications center which is specialized in keeping him in contact with anyone he wants. This center is commonly called SecDef Cables and is part of Secretary of Defense Communications (SDC) unit.
SecDef Cables provides operational information management and functions as a command and control support center. It is staffed by 26 service members and 4 civilians. They provide "comprehensive voice, video, and data capabilities to the secretary and his immediate staff, regardless of their location, across multiple platforms and classifications."
Furthermore, SecDef Cables serves as a liaison to the National Military Command Center (NMCC), the White House Situation Room, the State Department Operations Center and similar communication centers. Finally, Cables manages the connections for the Defense Telephone Link (DTL), which is a lower-level hotline with military counterparts in about 25 countries, including Russia and China."
https://www.electrospaces.net/2025/04/how-us-defense-secretary-hegseth.html
