Trump Signs Executive Order Rebranding Pentagon as Department of War

President Donald Trump signs an executive order at the White House in Washington, D.C. (REUTERS photo)

Washington, D.C., September 5, 2025 — President Donald Trump signed an executive order today renaming the Department of Defense to the Department of War, a symbolic move that harks back to the department’s original title before 1947. The controversial decision, announced from the White House, aims to "reflect the true nature of America’s strength and readiness to confront global threats," according to a statement from the administration.

The executive order, signed at 5:21 PM HST, directs all federal agencies, military branches, and government communications to adopt the new name effective immediately. Trump described the rebranding as a return to clarity, stating, “We’re not just defending—we’re prepared to win any war, anywhere, anytime, to protect America’s interests.” The move has sparked immediate debate, with supporters praising its bold messaging and critics warning of heightened global tensions.

The Department of War was the official name of the U.S. military establishment from 1789 until the National Security Act of 1947 merged the War and Navy Departments into the Department of Defense. Trump’s order frames the change as a restoration of historical tradition, emphasizing a proactive stance in an era of growing geopolitical challenges, including tensions with China, Russia, and Iran. A senior administration official, speaking anonymously, said the rebranding reflects “a mindset shift to deter adversaries and project unapologetic strength.”

The announcement comes amid other defense-related actions by the Trump administration, including increased military spending and a focus on modernizing nuclear arsenals. The order does not alter the department’s structure, budget, or leadership—currently led by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth—but is expected to influence military messaging and public perception.

Reaction to the rebranding has been sharply divided. Supporters, including some Republican lawmakers, hailed it as a signal of resolve. “This is about calling a spade a spade,” posted Senator Tom Cotton on X. “We’re not here to play defense—we’re here to win.” Conversely, critics, including Democratic leaders and some foreign policy experts, expressed alarm. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called the move “reckless and inflammatory,” arguing it could escalate tensions with allies and adversaries alike. “Words matter, and this sends a dangerous signal,” Jeffries said in a statement.

International responses have been cautious. A NATO spokesperson declined to comment directly, noting that the alliance’s focus remains on collective defense. However, posts on X from European and Asian accounts raised concerns about the implications for global stability, with some users labeling it a “provocative step.” In Moscow, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed the rebranding as “American posturing,” while Chinese state media has yet to issue an official response.

Analysts suggest the rebranding aligns with Trump’s broader strategy of projecting strength and reshaping U.S. foreign policy. “This is less about operational changes and more about signaling a muscular approach to adversaries,” said Dr. James Carafano, a national security expert at the Heritage Foundation. However, others, like Georgetown University’s Professor Angela Stent, warned that the name change could complicate diplomacy. “It risks alienating allies who see ‘defense’ as cooperative and ‘war’ as aggressive,” she noted.

The Pentagon has not yet commented on how the rebranding will affect internal operations or public-facing initiatives. A spokesperson confirmed that signage, letterheads, and digital platforms will be updated in the coming months, though no cost estimate for the transition was provided.

As the U.S. navigates a complex global landscape, the rebranding to the Department of War marks a provocative shift in tone. Whether it will strengthen America’s position or fuel further tensions remains to be seen, with the international community and domestic audiences closely watching the fallout.