- Elon Musk criticized manned fighter jets like the F-35, calling them “expensive and obsolete.”
- Musk argued that drones are the future of air combat, highlighting their efficiency and safety.
- Experts, however, disagree, saying the F-35’s advanced electronics and strategic role make it essential in modern warfare.
Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, stirred controversy by declaring that manned fighter jets like the F-35 are outdated and expensive. Musk posted on his social media platform, X, that drones are the future of air combat, arguing that using human pilots in jets like the F-35 only puts lives at risk.
The F-35 is a cutting-edge stealth fighter developed by Lockheed Martin and used by several nations. However, Musk criticized it for being too costly and complicated, saying it’s a “jack of all trades, master of none.” He also shared a video of drones in formation, mocking the continued development of manned jets.
While Musk’s remarks sparked debate, experts disagree. Mauro Gilli, a researcher at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, noted that the F-35’s cost is mainly due to its advanced electronics and software, not its piloting system. He also argued that the F-35’s strategic value forces adversaries like Russia and China to invest in advanced technology, maintaining a balance of power.
Hmm https://t.co/rj7WvY9zee pic.twitter.com/QbUepe6XDY
— Marc Andreessen 🇺🇸 (@pmarca) November 25, 2024
