Panetta said that as Pentagon chief he would issue a directive changing the way cases are handled. A higher authority within the military now will review the most serious cases, ensuring that cases remain within the chain of the command and leaders are held responsible.

He said he would work with Congress on legislation implementing several other initiatives, including creation of special victims units within the services, allowing National Guard and reserve members to remain on active duty after they file a complaint and an explanation of sexual assault policies to all service members within 14 days of their entry in the military.

These initiatives are likely to be included in the sweeping defense bill that the House Armed Services panel will be crafting beginning next week.

"This is a strong package. It is essential, we believe, to being able to prevent and respond to the crime of sexual assault," Panetta said.