Donald Trump signs an executive order rebranding the Pentagon as the Department of War, with the Pentagon building and bold lettering in the background.
Introduction
President Donald Trump has spurred a striking shift in U.S. military branding by authorizing the Department of Defense to adopt the historical title “Department of War.” Through this move, Trump signals a return to assertive national posture as he reimagines America’s defense identity.
Trump’s Bold Rebranding of the Pentagon
On September 5, 2025, Trump signed an executive order granting the Pentagon the additional title “Department of War”—a name used by the U.S. military from 1789 to 1947 The GuardianAP NewsAl Jazeera.
Though Congress must act to make the name change official, the order allows the Pentagon to use the new title in ceremonial settings, internal communications, and non-statutory materials. Immediately, the Department updated its website (now accessible via war.gov) and social media accounts, and even redesigned signage and job titles WIREDReutersAP News.
Government Officials Embrace the ‘War Ethos’
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, now styled as “Secretary of War,” praised the change as a cultural reset. He declared the rebranding as crucial to restoring a “warrior ethos” that focuses on maximum lethality rather than political correctness—highlighting a move toward offensive military posture WIREDThe Times of IndiaReuters.
Symbolism vs. Cost and Legal Challenges
Critics have raised concerns about both symbolism and expense. Analysts warn that the rebranding could cost over $1 billion, covering updates across global installations, stationery, and digital infrastructure OmniThe Independent.
Moreover, the law still officially recognizes the Department of Defense, and achieving a formal renaming would require Congressional approval through legislation AP NewsReuters.
What This Means for U.S. Military Identity
This dramatic shift reflects Trump’s broader strategy of reinforcing strength through symbolic gestures. The “Department of War” branding echoes an era of direct military assertion and may resonate with nationalist sentiments, while drawing sharp criticism about its implications for global diplomacy and military identity New York MagazineThe Times of IndiaWIRED.
Summary Table
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Change Type | “Department of War” added as a secondary name |
| Symbolic Impact | Emphasizes “maximum lethality” and a warrior identity |
| Legal Constraints | Official title change mandated by Congress |
| Expected Cost | Estimated at over $1B for implementation |
| Broader Significance | Signals aggressive strategic posture shift |
Conclusion
President Trump’s rebranding of the Pentagon as the “Department of War” marks a bold, controversial turn in U.S. defense identity. While the action underscores a force-forward attitude, it raises serious fiscal, legal, and diplomatic questions. The ultimate outcome will depend on whether Congress supports incorporating this militaristic branding into law—or views it as a costly, symbolic departure from decades of defense-oriented terminology.
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