Pentagon rebranding raises questions about U.S. military posture

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has spearheaded a Pentagon rebranding—styling the Defense Department as the 'Department of War'—and implemented internal appearance and personnel rules (including limits on shaving waivers and bans on lipstick for servicewomen). Reporters say 'Department of War' seals have been installed at U.S. bases, and Hegseth is quoted urging a shift to 'offense' and 'maximum lethality,' prompting analysts to debate whether these symbolic and policy moves signal a substantive change in U.S. use of force under the Trump administration.