Elon Musk returns to Pentagon as co-director of Project Meridian

Elon Musk: Elon Musk leads major technology companies including SpaceX and Tesla. He previously served in a government efficiency role before stepping away last year. In this development, he is returning to a limited advisory position co-directing the Pentagon's Project Meridian on future warfare technologies. Pete Hegseth: Pete Hegseth serves as Defense Secretary in the current administration. He announced the launch of Project Meridian and selected external leaders including Elon Musk to guide the effort. Hegseth emphasized the need to prepare for advanced technologies across all future battlefields. U.S. Department of Defense: The U.S. Department of Defense manages national military operations and strategy through the Pentagon. It is launching Project Meridian to explore emerging domains of conflict and required capabilities. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the initiative during a recent address to troops. Output Focus: The effort aims to identify domains and capabilities for development and fielding in coming conflicts. Initiative Scope: Project Meridian examines the full spectrum of future warfighting environments and technologies needed for dominance. Leadership Approach: The project draws on perspectives from technologists, innovators, and policy experts outside traditional Pentagon channels.