Deputy Defense Secretary Ashton Carter is Stepping Down in December

Hagel says he "reluctantly accepted" his decision

(Reuters) - Deputy Defense Secretary Ashton Carter, known for his deep knowledge of U.S. defense spending and the defense industry, said on Thursday he was stepping down in December after four years in top Pentagon jobs.

Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said he "reluctantly accepted" Carter's decision to leave the post. It was unclear who might replace him.