US President Donald Trump has announced plans to rename the Department of Defense as the Department of War.

He is expected to sign an executive order today, September 5, allowing the Pentagon to use the new title as a secondary name. Under this change, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will also be referred to as the Secretary of War.

Hegseth reposted Fox News’ announcement about the update on X, writing “Department of War” in capital letters to show his support.

The move will likely require approval from Congress before it can become permanent. According to the BBC, the executive order explains that the term “Department of War” conveys greater strength and readiness compared to “Department of Defense,” which focuses mainly on defense.

The order also directs Secretary Hegseth to propose future steps, including legislative changes, to fully restore the old name.

The Department of War originally existed under President George Washington but was renamed after World War II. Trump argues that bringing back the title will sharpen America’s focus on national interests and send a strong signal to adversaries.

The White House has not released details on the cost of such a change, but reports suggest it could reach billions of dollars.

Rebranding would require updates across hundreds of agencies, logos, email addresses, and uniforms, which might slow down the Pentagon’s effort to cut spending and waste.

Trump has often said that the US enjoyed its greatest military victories when the department carried the old name, particularly during both world wars.

He also expressed confidence that lawmakers would support him if necessary. “I don’t even think we need Congress,” he said last week. “But if we do, I’m sure they’ll go along.”