Up to 10,800 U.S. troops will remain in Afghanistan at the start of 2009 . Hagel 's unannounced trip will include other stops in the region . The trip follows a recent announcement that he would step down as defense secretary . He has served as defense secretary since last year .
Up to 10,800 U.S. troops will remain in Afghanistan at the start of 2015 . Hagel 's unannounced visit will include other stops in the region . The trip follows a recent announcement that he will step down as defense chief . He has served as defense secretary since last year .