Elon Musk's efficiency cuts may threaten crucial U.S. defense plans

Elon Musk, as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), was appointed by Donald Trump to conduct an audit at the Pentagon. His goal is to identify potential abuses and waste of funds, which could amount to billions of dollars. The Wall Street Journal, citing sources familiar with the matter, reports that this information has spurred many units to prepare lists of armament programs they have long wanted to cancel. The Pentagon has not commented on these reports yet.

Possible cuts are stirring many conflicting emotions. Proponents believe they are necessary to improve the efficiency of the American defense industry. Opponents argue that excessive cost reductions and budget cuts (currently amounting to $850 billion) could weaken the combat readiness of the US and negatively impact its current and future military strategy. Given the growing security challenges, including the rapidly rising military power of China, this strategy should be an unwavering foundation.

Although detailed information about specific military programs that may be affected by reductions has not yet been disclosed, analysts predict that ambitious and costly projects, such as the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) fighter program, may come under scrutiny. This is especially likely since the NGAD program, aimed at developing an advanced sixth-generation fighter, is one of the Pentagon's most expensive endeavors.

It's worth noting that Joe Biden's administration requested $2.75 billion for NGAD research and development in the fiscal year 2025. Simultaneously, it was estimated that funding for this program could increase to $5.72 billion by 2029. The development of these aircraft is not the only financial challenge; the unit cost of the NGAD aircraft is also unfavorable. In 2024, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) determined that it could cost as much as $300 million, which is more than three times the cost of a fifth-generation F-35A Lightning II fighter.

According to Defence Industry Europe, senior American officials are increasingly questioning the original vision of the NGAD program. Various other options are currently being considered, including the integration of NGAD with unmanned systems and modifications in range and engine configuration to lower costs without compromising combat capabilities.

Many countries are currently developing programs aimed at creating sixth-generation fighters. The United States is focused on the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program. In Europe, two separate initiatives are underway: France, Germany, and Spain are collaborating on the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) project, while the United Kingdom, Italy, and Sweden are developing the Tempest program.

China is also participating in the race for sixth-generation fighters. Although Beijing reveals little about its program and its progress, it is worth mentioning that in December 2024, footage emerged showing two new Chinese aircraft with features suggesting they belong to this class. However, China has not officially confirmed that they possess such machines.