Elon Musk has accepted a new position within the Trump administration. He will assist the Pentagon in determining future weapons and technology needs for American troops. War Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that Musk will co-lead Project Meridian, a Pentagon initiative that looks years and even decades ahead to identify new warfare domains and necessary military capabilities.

Musk will lead alongside Palmer Luckey, a defense tech billionaire, and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich. Their work will be directed by Emil Michael, Chief Technology Officer of the War Department. The project aims to map the trajectory of wars and technologies over 120 days, resulting in public findings and a classified annex.

“The best forecasters of future conflict do not solely reside inside the Pentagon,” Hegseth stated during his address at Marine Corps Base Quantico.

Musk’s experience comes from leading the Department of Government Efficiency and developing technology for the military through SpaceX. Luckey’s Anduril Industries specializes in autonomous weapons and advanced military systems. While their experience is valuable, it may also raise conflict-of-interest concerns as their companies compete for defense contracts.

Project Meridian is part of a broader military shift towards autonomous warfare. Hegseth also announced the creation of Autonomous Warfare Command (AUTOWARCOM) to expand robotic capabilities across the joint force. New career frameworks will be introduced within the military to support autonomous warfighter development. Hegseth emphasized the need for such foresight to prevent falling behind technological advancements.

During his annual State of the Force address, Hegseth presented six new initiatives. These range from embracing autonomous warfare to safeguarding US bases and supply chains from foreign interference. The event aimed to inform younger military leaders, highlighting their role as current and future leaders.

Hegseth used the address to criticize parts of the media for what he called “partisan activism” that he believes threatens military operations. He expressed strong disapproval, describing such journalism as “fundamentally anti-American” and “treason.”