President Donald Trump has directed the Department of Defense to adopt “Department of War” as a secondary title, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to be called Secretary of War. The executive order aims to emphasize US military readiness and refocus the department on “warfighting” rather than diversity programs, BBC reported.
The Pentagon, successor to the original War Department established in 1789, cannot be permanently renamed without Congress. Hegseth is tasked with proposing measures for a permanent change. Trump cited America’s military legacy and expects congressional support if needed.
The move follows China’s display of new military hardware and marks Trump’s 200th executive order since taking office. Permanent rebranding could cost billions, affecting uniforms, emblems, and agency materials, according to BBC.
