Elon Musk, the controversial tech mogul and Donald Trump’s choice to co-lead the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has unleashed a blistering critique of the F-35 stealth fighter program. In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), Musk shared a video showcasing a synchronized drone swarm, juxtaposing it with the F-35 and declaring, “Meanwhile, some idiots are still building manned fighter jets like the F-35.” This bold statement ignited a firestorm of debate surrounding the future of military aviation and the astronomical costs associated with large-scale defense projects.
The Pentagon’s Joint Program Office swiftly responded to Musk’s criticism, defending the F-35’s popularity among U.S. and international military services. A spokesperson emphasized the aircraft’s effectiveness and its growing global demand, painting a picture of continued investment and widespread adoption. Lockheed Martin, the primary contractor for the F-35, also weighed in, reaffirming its commitment to working with the incoming administration while simultaneously praising the fighter jet’s capabilities. However, this defense comes against a backdrop of persistent criticism regarding cost overruns and repeated delays that have plagued the program since its inception.
Musk’s attack on the F-35 isn’t an isolated incident. It’s part of a broader pattern of outspoken criticism against what he perceives as wasteful government spending. He’s previously voiced concerns about the U.S. government’s fiscal policy, warning of the dangers of “extreme government overspending” and its contribution to inflation. These concerns align with the primary mandate of the DOGE, established by President-elect Trump to address wasteful expenditure and streamline government operations. While analysts like Mario Georgiou of InCred Global Wealth U.K. project modest annual savings of $50–100 billion under the DOGE – a mere fraction of the projected $6.7 trillion in federal outlays for 2024 – Musk’s comments underscore the scale of the challenge in tackling government waste.
The F-35 program, initiated in 2001, has become the most expensive military program in history, with an estimated total cost of $1.8 trillion. Musk’s criticism therefore highlights a growing debate about the allocation of defense resources and the potential benefits of exploring alternative, potentially more cost-effective technologies like drone swarms. The question remains: Will Musk’s influence within the DOGE lead to a re-evaluation of expensive legacy projects like the F-35, or will the program continue its controversial trajectory? This ongoing debate will undoubtedly shape the future direction of U.S. defense spending and military technology.
The implications of this clash extend beyond the F-35 itself. It represents a larger conversation regarding the balance between technological advancement, national security, and fiscal responsibility. As the incoming administration grapples with these complex issues, Musk’s high-profile intervention ensures that the debate about government spending and military modernization will remain at the forefront of national discourse.
