SpaceX Reportedly Enters Secret $100M Pentagon Drone Contest

SpaceX and its wholly owned artificial intelligence subsidiary xAI are reportedly participating in a secret $100 million Pentagon competition aimed at developing advanced autonomous drone swarming technology, according to Bloomberg News.

The six-month challenge seeks systems capable of translating voice commands into digital instructions that can coordinate and operate multiple drones simultaneously. The reported contest reflects the Pentagon’s broader push to accelerate drone development and expand the use of advanced artificial intelligence tools across defense operations.

The initiative comes as U.S. defense officials have emphasized reducing bureaucratic barriers and increasing domestic drone manufacturing capacity. Washington has also focused on finding safe and cost-effective ways to counter drone threats, particularly around high-profile events such as major sporting competitions and national celebrations.

SpaceX recently acquired xAI in a move that combined Elon Musk’s space and defense contractor with his artificial intelligence startup, further expanding the company’s footprint in advanced AI and defense technologies.

If confirmed, SpaceX’s participation would place it among a select group of technology firms competing to shape the next generation of military drone systems.