On November 7, 2023, Pentagon Secretary Pete Hegseth addressed Washington’s National War College, warning that “it’s time like 1939” and urging immediate overhaul of U.S. defense.
Urgent Speech at the National War College
On Friday, 7 November 2023, Pete Hegseth spoke at the National War College in Washington, D.C., an elite institution that trains senior military leaders and high‑ranking officials in national security policy. He addressed decision‑makers with a message of urgency about the state of U.S. defense.
Call for Rapid System Transformation
Hegseth urged the Department of Defense to transform the entire system so it can function in a wartime mode, accelerate the deployment of capabilities, and focus on results. He said the goal is to build or rebuild an “arsenal of freedom” that can confront the most difficult and dangerous challenges of war.
Broad Military Capabilities as Deterrent
The Secretary stressed that soldiers must possess a wide range of capabilities to deter any aggression and, if necessary, decisively defeat any opponent who dares to challenge the United States.
Push for Industry Innovation and Partnership
Hegseth called on industry to abandon excessive regulation, treat cooperation with the DoD as a growth opportunity, and take calculated risks. He framed speed and results as the foundation of effective deterrence.
Historical Resonance with 1939
He described the current moment as “a moment like 1939,” and, with cautious optimism, compared it to 1981, warning that enemies are gathering and threats are mounting.
Emphasis on Immediate Action to Prevent War
Concluding his address, the Secretary declared that preventing war requires preparation now: “If we want to avoid war, we must prepare now.” He called for transformational change beyond mere reform.
