Trump's DOGE Co-Lead Elon Musk Slams Lockheed Martin's F-35 Fighter Jets, Advocates Drone Warfare As Pentagon Defends $1.8 Trillion Program

Elon Musk, Donald Trump‘s pick to co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has voiced strong criticism against the F-35 stealth fighter program, advocating for the use of drones over manned jets.

What Happened: On Sunday, Musk shared a video on his social media platform X, featuring synchronized drone swarms, and remarked, "Meanwhile, some idiots are still building manned fighter jets like the F-35.”

The Pentagon’s joint program office defended the F-35, highlighting its preference among U.S. Services and international partners. A spokesperson emphasized its effectiveness and growing global interest. Lockheed Martin LMT, the main contractor, expressed its commitment to collaborating with the new administration and praised the F-35’s capabilities, Fortune reported on Monday.

Despite Musk’s criticism, the Pentagon continues to operate a mix of manned and unmanned aircraft. The F-35 program, awarded to Lockheed in 2001, has faced scrutiny for cost overruns and delays. The Defense Department’s estimate for the program’s total cost is $1.8 trillion, making it the most expensive in its history.

See Also: With Musk And Ramaswamy Preparing To Slash Entire Government Agencies, Here’s Which Departments Employ The Most Americans And Their Salaries

Why It Matters: Musk’s recent criticism aligns with his ongoing concerns about government spending. Back in September, Musk criticized the U.S. government’s fiscal policy, warning that “extreme government overspending is bankrupting America” and contributing to inflation. He expressed these concerns on X, highlighting the potential financial risks of unchecked spending.

President-elect Donald Trump appointed the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to tackle wasteful spending. However, analysts like Mario Georgiou of InCred Global Wealth U.K. predict only a modest impact, estimating potential savings of $50–100 billion annually, according to the Congressional Budget Office. This figure pales in comparison to the total federal outlays of approximately $6.7 trillion projected for 2024.

Musk’s critique of the F-35 program is part of a broader conversation about fiscal responsibility and the need to reassess costly government programs.

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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of Benzinga Neuro and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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