Donald Trump has issued multiple executive orders designed to overhaul Pentagon policies, including a directive to reevaluate the military’s approach to transgender service members. These orders also address the reinstatement of troops dismissed over COVID-19 vaccine refusals, the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, and the development of a space-based missile defense system.
Potential Ban on Transgender Troops
Trump’s executive order directs Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to revise the Pentagon’s policy on transgender military service, setting the groundwork for a potential future ban. The order argues that service members identifying as a gender other than their biological sex could undermine military discipline, readiness, and commitment to service.
This move revives a policy Trump attempted to enforce during his first term, which faced legal challenges before being overturned by President Joe Biden. Civil rights groups have already pledged to fight against any new restrictions. The details of implementation remain in the hands of the defense secretary, with no immediate enforcement of a ban.
Reviving Space-Based Missile Defense
Trump also ordered the Pentagon to develop a space-based missile defense system, referring to it as “an Iron Dome for America.” The initiative aims to enhance national security by countering missile threats using interceptors stationed in space.
The order builds on Trump’s first-term establishment of the U.S. Space Command and U.S. Space Force, underscoring his commitment to military dominance in space. The move follows longstanding concerns about China and Russia’s advancements in space warfare, including the development of anti-satellite weapons.
The U.S. previously explored space-based missile defense under President Ronald Reagan’s Strategic Defense Initiative, commonly known as “Star Wars.” That program was abandoned due to technological and financial constraints. Trump’s new directive seeks to overcome those hurdles and create a multi-layered defense system.
Reinstating Troops Dismissed Over COVID-19 Vaccination
Another executive order signed by Trump offers full reinstatement to service members discharged for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine. Those who voluntarily left the military to avoid the vaccine mandate will also be eligible to return if they submit a sworn statement.
The policy grants back pay and reinstates previous ranks for returning personnel. However, all service members seeking reinstatement must meet military entry standards, including fitness, medical, and conduct requirements. Individuals with a history of misconduct or other ineligibilities will not qualify for reinstatement.
Despite an earlier invitation for dismissed troops to return, the military has seen a low re-enlistment rate. Of the 8,200 service members removed due to vaccine refusals, only a small fraction have chosen to return, suggesting the order may have a limited impact on overall force levels.
Eliminating DEI Programs in the Military
As expected, Trump issued a sweeping directive to abolish all DEI initiatives within the Department of Defense and the Coast Guard. The order calls for the removal of any programs that promote race-based preferences, gender ideology, or what it describes as “divisive concepts.”
The policy requires the Pentagon to identify and eliminate any DEI-related actions within 90 days, with progress reports due to the White House within six months. Federal agencies have already begun removing DEI materials, leading to unintended consequences, such as the temporary removal of historical content related to the Tuskegee Airmen and the Women’s Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs).
The removal of these materials sparked backlash, prompting clarification from the Air Force that while DEI courses were being restructured, historical lessons on these military pioneers would still be included in training programs.
Far-Reaching Implications
Trump’s latest executive orders mark a significant shift in Pentagon policy, with broad implications for military personnel, national security, and the structure of defense programs. The transgender troop policy is expected to face legal challenges, the missile defense initiative raises questions about feasibility and funding, and the DEI purge may trigger further debate on military culture.
With these sweeping changes implemented on Defense Secretary Hegseth’s first day in office, the coming months will reveal how the Pentagon responds to Trump’s directives and whether they withstand scrutiny from lawmakers, advocacy groups, and military leaders.