CNN: The Pentagon is considering its response to potential "controversial" orders from Trump.

This is reported by CNN citing sources.

The orders that are causing concern in the Pentagon relate to the deployment of troops within the country and the dismissal of many "apolitical" employees of the department.

In particular, troops may be sent to American cities to assist with the plan for mass deportation of illegal immigrants, which Trump has repeatedly mentioned during his campaign.

Additionally, several thousand military personnel could be dispatched to reinforce the border with Mexico — army representatives believe this could undermine the military's readiness to confront external threats.

Previously, Trump suggested he would be prepared to use the armed forces to maintain order within the country and would want to appoint loyal individuals to his government, dismissing "corrupt individuals."

During his previous presidential term, Trump had a complicated relationship with most of the senior military leadership, CNN reports. In particular, with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley, who took steps to limit Trump's ability to use nuclear weapons.

"We are all preparing and planning for the worst-case scenario, but the reality is we still do not know how this will unfold," said one defense official who spoke with reporters.

It remains unclear who Trump will choose for the position of Secretary of Defense, although officials believe he will try to avoid "hostile" relations with the military, which he experienced during his previous term.