Tech entrepreneur Elon Musk has emphasized the need for the United States to bolster its defense capabilities by investing heavily in hypersonic missiles and a diverse fleet of unmanned drones (air, surface, and underwater). He argues that in future conflicts, these technologies will be crucial, while manned aircraft will be highly vulnerable.

Musk reiterated his belief, shared in previous statements, that the era of piloted fighter jets is ending, predicting their swift destruction in drone-dominated warfare. He has been particularly critical of the F-35 fighter jet program, labeling its design as flawed and inefficient, resulting in a costly and ineffective aircraft. He believes the program's requirements were overly ambitious, attempting to cater to too many needs, ultimately compromising its overall performance. Furthermore, he contends that manned fighter jets are becoming obsolete in the face of advanced drone technology, putting pilots at unnecessary risk.

Musk's critique of the F-35 program extends to its financial burden, calling it a poor use of taxpayer money. He has urged a halt to what he considers excessive spending on the program, advocating for a more strategic allocation of resources.

In addition to his defense commentary, Musk, alongside entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, has been appointed by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This initiative aims to identify and address government waste, promoting fiscal responsibility and spending cuts. Musk has expressed concern over the escalating national debt, deeming it a significant threat to the nation's financial stability. He has warned that without corrective action, the US risks a de facto bankruptcy.