In a surprising move, US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to officially rename the Department of Defence as the “Department of War.” Trump believes this new name better reflects the current global security challenges.
After signing the order on Friday, Trump praised the idea, saying that “Department of War” sounds more fitting today. He emphasized America’s military strength, stating, “We have won both World Wars and have the strongest military in the world, with the best equipment.” He added that the new name sends a message of “victory” and “power” to the world.
Trump also claimed that recent efforts have helped bring peace. “Our strength is the reason we’ve ended seven global wars,” he said, pointing out that strength and trade are the keys to peace. “Strength might be more important than trade,” he added.
Standing with Trump, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth explained that the move aims to “restore the warrior ethos.” He said the new “Department of War” will focus on winning conflicts decisively, instead of endless fighting. “We’ll go on the offensive and build warriors, not just defenders,” Hegseth stated.
However, changing the department’s name requires approval from the US Congress, as per federal law. When asked if he plans to seek Congress’s approval, Trump replied, “We’ll put it before Congress and see what they say. But we’re moving forward strongly with this.”
The Department of War has a long history—it was created in 1789 to oversee the U.S. military. The name remained until 1947 when it was changed to the Department of Defence under President Harry Truman, reflecting a shift toward national security and deterrence after World War II.
This recent move to rename the department has sparked much discussion about America’s military identity and its approach to global security.
