### Tech Billionaires Push for Shift from Traditional Military Hardware to Drones

Prominent backers of President-elect Donald Trump, including some of the wealthiest figures in technology and venture capital, are advocating for a revolutionary shift in military spending—from traditional, crewed aircraft and tanks to advanced drone technology. These influential voices argue that drones offer better performance at a fraction of the cost.

Tesla founder Elon Musk, who is leading an advisory group focusing on reducing government waste, has been vocal about the obsolescence of crewed fighter jets. In a series of posts on the social media platform X, Musk described manned fighter jets as outdated and promoted drones as the future. He even criticized the ongoing production of the F-35 fighter jet program.

Similarly, Marc Andreessen, a venture capitalist who donated significant funds to Trump's campaign, has argued on his podcast that the future of military dominance lies in drone technology. Andreessen cited a former special forces officer, noting that modern drones, especially those capable of operating in swarms, can handle many military tasks traditionally performed by human soldiers.

The push for drones doesn't stop with Musk and Andreessen. Several other tech magnates who have Trump's ear are angling for influential positions within his administration. For instance, businessman John Phelan is nominated to lead the Navy, despite having no prior ties to the military. Venture capitalist Trae Stephens, co-founder of Anduril Industries, is under consideration for deputy secretary of defense, and investor Stephen Feinberg is reportedly a candidate for another high-ranking Pentagon position.

Elon Musk and Andreessen's advocacy highlights the benefits of drones, such as significant cost savings and improved operational efficiency. Byron Callan, a defense industry analyst at Capital Alpha Partners, acknowledges the potential for accelerated drone deployment but emphasizes the need for a balanced mix of crewed and uncrewed systems.

Notably, former Google chief Eric Schmidt has gone as far as to suggest that the Army should eliminate its tank inventory in favor of AI-powered drones, labeling tanks as "useless." However, this radical perspective is met with skepticism within the military ranks. Adm. Samuel Paparo, the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command chief, has underscored the limitations of relying solely on drones, particularly in extensive operational theaters like the Pacific.

As Trump prepares to take office, the debate over the future of military technology intensifies. While tech investors push for transformative changes, military leaders warn against wholly abandoning traditional equipment. The outcome of this debate could significantly influence the direction of U.S. defense policy in the coming years.