Elon Musk met with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon on Wednesday, marking his second high-level visit to the Department of Defense this year. The meeting included members of Musk’s X AI team and was part of the Pentagon’s broader engagement with AI industry leaders.
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell confirmed the meeting, emphasizing the department’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge AI technologies to enhance U.S. military capabilities. The visit was first reported by Reuters.
Musk, whose companies SpaceX and Starlink hold multiple defense contracts, continues to play a pivotal role in national security discussions. His businesses are seen as potential key contributors to Trump’s proposed “Golden Dome” missile defense initiative, which would rely heavily on satellite-based sensors—technology SpaceX is well-positioned to deliver.
Earlier Wednesday, Pastor Brooks Potteiger, who spoke at a Christian service at the Pentagon, posted on X about seeing Musk onsite. Musk has not yet commented publicly on the meeting.
This visit follows controversy in March when reports suggested Musk would be briefed on classified military plans regarding China. Musk denied the claims, labeling them “pure propaganda” and calling for legal action against the sources.
Amid growing scrutiny, concerns persist over potential conflicts of interest between Musk’s business ventures and his influential role in reshaping government spending. The White House previously stated Musk would recuse himself if such conflicts arise.
Recently, Musk announced plans to reduce his political contributions, signaling a renewed focus on his companies. His role leading the Department of Government Efficiency has already led to significant spending cuts, including within the Pentagon.
Musk’s growing influence at the intersection of AI, defense, and politics continues to attract attention from both industry insiders and government watchdogs.