Pentagon Faces Calls for Major Cuts as Musk-Led Efficiency Drive Targets Federal Waste

Experts highlight over $60 billion in annual Pentagon inefficiencies, while Musk's Department of Government Efficiency shifts focus to smaller agencies.

The Department of Defense, with a budget nearing $1 trillion, has failed seven consecutive audits and is identified as a significant source of federal inefficiency.
A new report suggests over $60 billion in potential annual savings by cutting programs like the F-35 aircraft, missile defense systems, and outdated nuclear weapons initiatives.
Critics argue that Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has largely avoided substantial cuts to Pentagon spending, focusing instead on smaller agencies like USAID and the Department of Education.
Advocates for Pentagon reforms emphasize redirecting funds from military programs to critical areas such as diplomacy, climate initiatives, and public health, citing non-military threats as key priorities.
While Musk and President Trump have expressed interest in reducing military spending, experts remain skeptical about DOGE's ability to confront entrenched defense contractors and political backers.