Quick Read
- President Trump signed an order to rename the Department of Defense as the Department of War.
- The name change aims to project strength and emphasize a ‘warrior ethos.’
- Critics argue the move is outdated and could damage the U.S.’s image.
- The rebranding could cost billions, including updates to signs and uniforms.
- The name ‘Department of War’ was last used in 1947, before becoming the Department of Defense.
On Friday, September 5, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order initiating a significant rebranding of the United States Department of Defense (DoD). As per the order, the department will now be referred to as the Department of War, a name it originally held until 1947. This decision has drawn both praise and criticism, reflecting the administration’s broader priorities and messaging.
Historical Context: From War to Defense
The Department of War, originally established in 1789 under George Washington’s administration, was responsible for overseeing the United States Army. Following World War II, in 1947, it was reorganized and renamed the National Military Establishment, and later the Department of Defense, to reflect a post-war emphasis on collective security and deterrence. According to BBC News, the Trump administration argues that the name ‘Department of War’ better projects strength and resolve, aligning with a more aggressive military philosophy.
Critics, however, view the rebranding as symbolic of an outdated and potentially dangerous mindset. Democratic Senator Andy Kim of New Jersey called the move a ‘childish idea,’ emphasizing that Americans prioritize peace and conflict prevention. Yet President Trump remains confident that Congress will support the change, should their approval be required.
Reasons Behind the Change
President Trump has repeatedly expressed dissatisfaction with the current name, stating that it emphasizes defensive capabilities rather than offensive readiness. In a statement quoted by Al Jazeera, Trump remarked, ‘Defense is too defensive. And we want to be defensive, but we want to be offensive too, if we have to be.’ Trump and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth have also criticized the department’s focus on diversity and equity programs, advocating instead for a ‘warrior ethos’ and a focus on ‘warfighting.’
The rebranding is being seen as part of a broader effort by the administration to project a more assertive U.S. military posture amid rising global tensions, particularly with China. On Thursday, just a day before signing the order, Trump downplayed concerns about the move, stating that the rebranding reflects the U.S.’s historical legacy of military victories during World War I and II.
Implementation and Costs
According to the executive order obtained by NPR, the name ‘Department of War’ will initially serve as a secondary title for the Department of Defense while the administration pursues legislative approval to make the change permanent. Secretary Hegseth, who has already embraced the new title of ‘Secretary of War’ on social media, has been tasked with recommending legislative and executive actions to facilitate the transition.
The financial implications of the rebranding effort are significant. U.S. media estimates the cost to be in the billions, considering the overhaul of agency signs, emblems, email domains, and uniforms. For context, a recent effort to rename nine Army bases cost taxpayers $39 million, as reported by KCRW. Despite these concerns, the administration has not provided a detailed cost breakdown.
Reactions and Broader Implications
The announcement has sparked a polarized response. Supporters argue that the change reflects a necessary shift in U.S. military strategy during an era of global uncertainty. Opponents see it as a politically motivated decision that could undermine the nation’s image as a promoter of peace and stability.
The timing of the announcement is also noteworthy, coming shortly after China unveiled an array of new military capabilities during a high-profile parade. Analysts suggest that the rebranding may be aimed at signaling U.S. strength and resolve to both domestic and international audiences.
While the renaming is largely symbolic, its potential impact on U.S. foreign and domestic policy debates remains a point of contention. As the largest department in the federal government, any change to the Pentagon’s operations carries weighty implications.
The decision to rename the Department of Defense as the Department of War marks a significant moment in U.S. military history. Whether this move will achieve its stated goal of projecting strength or provoke further controversy remains to be seen.