Trump Renames Department of Defense to Department of War
WASHINGTON — In a bold move, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday directing the Department of Defense to be officially known as the Department of War, harkening back to a name not used since the 1940s.
The change, aimed at projecting strength and resolve, will see the Pentagon initially adopt the new name as a secondary title while seeking congressional approval to make it permanent.
The rebranding process is estimated to cost over a billion dollars, covering the overhaul of emblems, agencies, uniforms, and digital platforms.
The Pentagon’s website was swiftly updated to “war.gov” with the headline “U.S. Department of War.”
Trump explained the rationale behind the name change, stating, “The name ‘Department of War’ conveys a stronger message of readiness and resolve compared to ‘Department of Defense,’ which emphasizes only defensive capabilities.”
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has been designated as secretary of war under the order, emphasizing a shift towards a more offensive stance.
Speaking at the signing, Hegseth emphasized, “This name change is not just about renaming, it’s about restoring. We’re going to go on offence, not just on defence. Maximum lethality, not tepid legality. Violent effect, not politically correct. We’re going to raise up warriors, not just defenders.”
The Department of War, originally established in 1789, was rebranded as the Department of Defense in 1947. Trump believes that the country’s history of victory in previous wars aligns with the original name.
Despite Congress being responsible for creating executive departments, Trump expressed confidence that lawmakers would support the idea if necessary.
However, Democratic Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey criticized the move as “childish,” emphasizing that Americans seek to prevent wars rather than glorify them.
The announcement comes amidst China’s display of new military technology in a parade seen as a warning to the US and its allies.
With this executive order, Trump marks his 200th since taking office, solidifying his administration’s emphasis on military strength. — Agencies
