Lockheed Martin braces for change as Elon Musk targets the F-35 program and Donald Trump prepares for a potential return to the White House in 2025.
At a Glance
- Elon Musk criticizes the F-35.
- Musk will lead the Department of Government Efficiency, targeting defense waste.
- Lockheed Martin prepares for potential shifts under a Trump administration.
- The F-35 faces development issues, but remains crucial for the US military.
Musk’s Criticism of the F-35
Elon Musk openly criticized Lockheed Martin’s F-35 stealth jet in late November, highlighting its design flaws and substantial expense. He will chair the new Department of Government Efficiency, focusing on reducing government waste by examining defense spending, leaving some questioning whether the F-35 program could be impacted.
Moreover, Musk argued the F-35 tries to fulfill too many functions, making it less effective. Lockheed Martin defends the F-35’s significance, affirming it is the most advanced fighter aircraft essential for national defense.
Lockheed Martin’s Anticipation of Change
Lockheed Martin is anticipating potential alterations in defense spending should Trump return to office in 2025. While CFO Jay Malave acknowledges the inevitable priority shifts typical with new administrations, Lockheed Martin remains flexible and prepared for change. Proposed reductions in the F-35 program might meet congressional resistance due to its economic and employment impact across multiple districts.
“I would expect, over time, that there will be different priorities in this administration. It typically happens, [that] the administration prioritizes things that maybe the prior one didn’t. I think the good thing about Lockheed Martin is that we’re accustomed to that. We know how to operate in that environment and how to adjust quickly,” Malave said.
Lockheed Martin is yet to acquire clarity regarding which defense initiatives might face budgetary reductions. There is speculation of a higher defense budget request, albeit possibly requiring fund reallocation. Despite delays in contract finalization affecting financial results, expectations remain optimistic for future recovery.
Future Prospects and Challenges
Some analysts assert that the F-35 remains a critical multirole fighter jet essential to U.S. military operations through 2088. Elon Musk, however, advocates for a shift towards unmanned drones, describing current fighter jets, including the F-35, as obsolete. The emphasis on drones underscores potential challenges the F-35 program may face amidst ongoing technical, reliability, and cybersecurity issues.
Looking ahead, Lockheed forms strategic relationships, including financial partnerships with multiple countries, adding complexity to any potential cuts. As Trump has previously lauded the F-35, any decision regarding the program’s future will require careful evaluation, considering its past operational challenges and strategic global partnerships.
Sources
- In an F-35 funding fight, Musk will need to win over a skeptical Congress and Trump
- Lockheed braces for new administration as Musk targets F-35
- Musk Revives F-35 Criticism, but Could It Actually Lead to Cuts Under Trump?
