Tech billionaire Elon Musk is set to return to an official advisory role in US President Donald Trump’s administration after being appointed to co-lead a new Pentagon initiative focused on the future of warfare.
The project, known as Project Meridian, was announced by US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth during his “State of the Force” address at Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.
Musk will lead the initiative alongside Palmer Luckey, co-founder of defence technology company Anduril Industries, and former US House Speaker Newt Gingrich.
According to Hegseth, the 120-day study will bring together technology experts, military leaders, academics and policymakers to examine emerging threats and identify the advanced capabilities the US military will need in future conflicts.
The initiative will explore how innovations in artificial intelligence, robotics, autonomous systems and other emerging technologies could reshape modern warfare.
Hegseth said the project would draw on expertise from outside the Pentagon, arguing that technological innovation and forward-thinking solutions would be essential to preparing for future battlefields.
Musk’s appointment marks his first major official advisory role in the Trump administration since leaving the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in May 2025.
During his time leading DOGE, Musk oversaw efforts to reduce government spending and restructure federal agencies. However, his departure followed a public disagreement with Trump over government spending policies.
His return comes amid renewed engagement with the Trump administration and growing attention to the role of private technology companies in national defence.
Project Meridian is expected to submit its findings and recommendations within 120 days, outlining potential strategies for developing and deploying advanced military technologies.
The initiative also highlights the Trump administration’s increasing focus on collaboration between government institutions and private-sector innovators to shape the future of US military operations.
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