US President Plans to Rebrand Department of Defense as 'Department of War'
U.S. President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order to rebrand the Department of Defense as the 'Department of War,' reverting to its original name from before 1947. While a formal name change requires an act of Congress, the executive order will authorize the Pentagon to use its former title. The move is described as part of an effort to project a tougher military image and is one of several cultural changes implemented at the Pentagon under the current administration.
Unpacked:
The Department of War was renamed the Department of Defense in 1947 to reflect a more unified approach to national security, combining the Army, Navy, and newly created Air Force under one umbrella via the National Security Act of 1947. This aimed to better coordinate U.S. military strategy and defense policy after World War II.
An executive order can direct how a department presents itself or operates internally but cannot legally change a department’s name, which requires Congressional approval. The executive order may authorize the use of a former title in official communication but does not formally alter the department’s legal name.
Supporters argue reverting to 'Department of War' projects strength and historical continuity. Critics contend it could signal a more aggressive stance, undermining diplomatic efforts and suggesting militarism over defense. Some view it as a symbolic gesture with little practical effect on policy.
Before 1947, the Department of War managed the Army and oversaw military operations, including finance and procurement. It did not supervise the Navy, which had its own department from 1798 onward. The War Department operated for 158 years and played a key role in organizing American land forces.