Pentagon to be called “Department of War”

Trump Revives Historic Title: Pentagon to Be Called “Department of War”
President Donald Trump has announced that the Department of Defense will once again be known, at least symbolically, as the Department of War. The move, signed by executive order on September 5, is intended to emphasize military strength and restore what Trump described as “historic clarity and purpose.”

What’s Changing

The head of the Pentagon may now also use the title “Secretary of War.”
The new name will be used in ceremonial and public communications, while the legal name Department of Defense remains in place until Congress acts.
The Pentagon has already updated some signage and digital addresses, including a new domain for public access: war.gov.

Why It Matters

Supporters argue the shift projects confidence and reconnects the military to its history. Critics, however, say it risks damaging America’s image abroad and could cost millions in updates to signs, stationery, and digital systems.

Historical Background

The Department of War was created in 1789 and managed the Army, and later the Air Forces, before being reorganized in 1947.

It was renamed the Department of Defense in 1949 to reflect a broader mission of national security in the nuclear age.

Next Steps

The executive order directs Pentagon leadership to submit recommendations to Congress within 60 days for a full legal renaming. Several Republican lawmakers have already pledged to introduce supporting legislation.