Donald Trump has signed an executive order to rebrand the Department of Defense as the “Department of War,” restoring the agency’s original title used between 1789 and 1947.
The directive designates “Department of War” as the department’s secondary title, allowing the change without requiring immediate congressional approval. Trump argued that the original name better reflects the military’s purpose and historic victories.
“This nation won its greatest wars under the Department of War,” Trump declared. “The new title represents strength and clarity about what our forces are here to do.”
The Pentagon has already begun implementing symbolic changes, including redirecting its official website from defense.gov to war.gov. The move signals a shift in messaging as the administration emphasizes a more aggressive military posture.
Although any permanent renaming will require congressional approval, Republican lawmakers have introduced legislation to formalize the change. Supporters within the administration say the rebranding marks a renewed focus on projecting American power.