Trump says Washington arch will house drones and snipers

Donald Trump said on Sunday that a massive triumphal arch he wants to build in Washington would also serve as a military complex for drones, snipers and ammunition.

In a Truth Social post, the US president said he had agreed to convert the proposed arch into what he called a “top grade Military Complex/Triumphal Arch.” He said it would store and allow rapid use of large numbers of drones, place snipers on the roof and plaza areas, and hold large quantities of sniper ammunition.

The proposed structure would be built along the Potomac River near Arlington National Cemetery. The Trump administration has not sought congressional input for the major change to the US capital.

The arch is part of Trump’s effort to put his mark on Washington since returning to power in January 2025. Other projects have included a White House ballroom, renovation of the Reflecting Pool and a move to place his name on the Kennedy Center walls before a judge reversed it.