US President Donald Trump has signed an order to rename the Department of Defense as the Department of War in all official White House documents.

This change was announced during a ceremony at the White House on September 5, 2025.

Trump said the new name shows a stronger and more aggressive military approach.

He criticized the previous focus on political correctness, calling it “woke,” and said the US should aim for more military victories.

Currently, the name change is only for executive documents, but Trump plans to ask Congress to make the change permanent by passing a law.

Read More: China offers to help Pakistan build high-speed bullet train project

This move matches Trump’s recent military actions in places like Yemen, Iran, and the Caribbean, despite his earlier promise to be a “peacemaker.”

The name “Department of War” was actually used before from 1789 until 1949, when it was changed to the Department of Defense to unify the military branches under one department.

This name changes signals a shift toward a more aggressive US military stance under Trump’s second term.

It reflects his criticism of previous administrations’ focus on political correctness and his desire for stronger military action.

While symbolic now, the change would require Congress’s approval to become official.

Historically, the name “Department of War” dates back to before World War II, showing a return to more traditional military naming.

This move could affect US foreign policy and military strategy, signaling increased readiness for offensive operations.