U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth takes a question from a reporter during a news conference at the Pentagon on June 22, 2025 in Arlington, Virginia. (Getty Images)
Likewise, implementing the order will require modifications to public-facing websites and office signage at the Pentagon, including renaming the public affairs briefing room the "Pentagon War Annex," according to a White House official. Other longer-term implementation projects are also in the works, the official said.
Trump signaled in recent days the change was imminent.
"Everybody likes that we had an unbelievable history of victory when it was Department of War," Trump told reporters on Aug. 25. "Then we changed it to Department of Defense."
Hegseth, who Trump has already referred to on occasion as the "Secretary of War," also expressed similar sentiments and said the change would reflect a broader, cultural shift within the Pentagon.
WHITE HOUSE ADVANCES PLAN FOR DEPARTMENT OF WAR AS TRUMP LOOKS TO RESTORE HISTORICAL MILITARY TITLE
An aerial view of the Pentagon, where General Tata's focus remains as Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness despite a legal battle. (Reuters)
It’s unclear if Congress, which has the authority to establish federal executive departments, will need to step in to issue final approval on the move. However, Trump has previously voiced confidence that he doesn't need approval from lawmakers, and that they will get on board if necessary.
"We're just going to do it," Trump told reporters on Aug. 25. "I'm sure Congress will go along if we need that. I don't think we even need that."
The executive order changing the name of the Department of Defense is the 200th order Trump has signed in his second term.
Fox News' Morgan Phillips contributed to this report.
Diana Stancy is a politics reporter with Fox News Digital covering the White House.
https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-renames-pentagon-restoring-historic-department-war-latest-military-move