In a move that has sent shockwaves through Washington and military circles, former President Donald Trump has signed an executive order directing the Pentagon to revert to its historic—and many say archaic—title: the Department of War.
The unexpected directive, issued on Thursday, aims to dismantle the modern-day Department of Defense and resurrect a name not used since 1947. The order claims the change will restore "clarity, honour, and a tradition of decisive victory" to the nation's military leadership.
Bipartisan Backlash and Legal Questions
The announcement was met with immediate and fierce criticism from both sides of the political aisle. Legal experts and former defence officials were quick to question the order's validity, noting that such a fundamental change to a federal agency would likely require congressional approval, not just a presidential pen.
One senior Pentagon official, who wished to remain anonymous, called the move "purely symbolic and dangerously distracting." They added, "Our focus should be on modern threats, not historical branding. This creates unnecessary confusion among allies and adversaries alike."
A Return to the Past
The Department of War was originally established in 1789 to oversee the army and navy. Its successor, the Department of Defense, was created after World War II to better unify the armed forces under a single command—a structure designed for the complexities of modern warfare and national security.
Critics argue that reverting to the old name is not just a step backward but a rejection of the integrated, multi-service approach that defines contemporary military strategy. The term 'war' itself, they say, is a provocative and simplistic label in an era defined by cyber conflict, space operations, and strategic deterrence.
What Happens Next?
The order directs defence officials to begin the transition process immediately, including updating official documents, websites, and signage. However, with strong opposition expected from Congress and likely legal challenges, the future of the directive is highly uncertain.
This move is seen by many as the opening salvo in a broader effort to reshape the US national security apparatus, signalling a turbulent and unpredictable period ahead for American defence policy.
