Trump says massive DC triumphal arch will house ammunition and rooftop sniper facilities

US President Donald Trump says his planned triumphal arch in Washington DC will also serve as a “top grade military complex” capable of storing weapons and ammunition.

In a Truth Social post Sunday, Trump said the new purpose for the proposed 250-foot structure came at the “strong request” of the US military.

He said the arch would “house, store, and have the rapid ability to use large quantities of sniper ammunition in storage”.

“There will be no facility like this anywhere in the world,” Trump added.

The project has faced criticism over its proposed location near Memorial Bridge and its potential impact on views around the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery.

According to The Guardian, the National Park Service warned last week that the structure could have “adverse effects to historic properties” and called for further planning before construction begins.

Its proximity to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport has also prompted questions from Democratic members of Congress.

Trump has linked the project to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Groundbreaking is expected to begin this month.

The president said the granite structure, which is expected to feature three golden statues, would be “by far the greatest” triumphal arch among major cities and capitals worldwide.

The arch is among several major Washington construction projects Trump has launched, alongside a White House ballroom and renovations to the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool.