Why the Pentagon just can’t quit Elon Musk

The Wall Street Journal reported that Elon Musk has been having undisclosed conversations with Vladimir Putin and other senior Russian officials since 2022 .

If true, the story is a matter of concern not only because of Musk ’s massive wealth and influence, but because he holds a “top secret” security clearance.

The Pentagon and NASA have become deeply dependent on Musk 's company SpaceX for space launches and satellite internet.

Taiwan ’s Deputy Minister of Digital Affairs Herming Chiueh told Vox his government was concerned that Musk “could cut the service [over] his personal opinion, so we don’t think this was a trustable partner” A Democratic member of Congress said it was “hugely concerning” The Pentagon has been positively glowing in their views of SpaceX.

The US military is increasingly relying on SpaceX for mobile internet connectivity.

The military version of Starlink consists of a constellation of satellites built by SpaceX but owned by the US military.

SpaceX has reportedly been awarded the contract to build the next generation of classified surveillance satellites for the National Reconnaissance Office .

The best hope for disruption may come from Musk ’s fellow tech plutocrat Jeff Bezos .