Two of Donald Trump’s Cabinet secretaries say the giant arch he wants near Arlington National Cemetery would do more than honor history. In court declarations filed on Wednesday, Pete Hegseth and Markwayne Mullin described it as a potential security asset for the country.
Pete Hegseth says the 250-foot monument could support counter-drone operations
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told the court that the arch would serve the military as well as the public. He argued that its design would let it protect the homeland while still standing as a national landmark. “The Arch is a generational national defense opportunity to mitigate these evolving threats.” He singled out the structure’s height as its biggest strength.
According to the secretary, a tall monument in the right location would give sensors and personnel a better view, which matters for counter-drone work. “Its height and strategic location provide enhanced lines of sight from both sensors and personnel, which is critical to C-UAS and other security operations,” Hegseth said (via Politico). C-UAS refers to efforts to stop drones and other aerial systems.
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin took a different angle. He said the Secret Service could use the arch to monitor senior government officials more closely. Both men said the structure could accommodate sensors and communications equipment, while also supporting sniper operations. The declarations came ahead of a Friday hearing in federal court. Judge Tanya S. Chutkan will consider whether the administration has the authority to proceed with the project near the Arlington Memorial Bridge over the Potomac River.
Work could begin as early as November 5, if the National Capital Planning Commission approves the design and the Interior Department issues its authorization. Trump officials and allies have been appointed to the commission, which is scheduled to review the project that day. The administration’s court filings estimate that construction could take about three years. Trump first pitched the arch as a way to mark the country’s 250th anniversary. Some lawmakers and veterans groups oppose it, partly because it would sit so near Arlington’s hallowed ground.
