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Marc Andreessen is hopping on the Musk bandwagon and slamming manned fighter jets, saying there won't be 'spam in the can' if pilots aren't in the plane

Nov 27, 2024 · businessinsider.com
Marc Andreessen is hopping on the Musk bandwagon and slamming manned fighter jets, saying there won't be 'spam in the can' if pilots aren't in the plane
Marc Andreessen, co-founder of venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz, has echoed Elon Musk's sentiments that AI-controlled jets and drones are superior to crewed fighter jets. Andreessen argues that drones can move faster and more efficiently as they do not need to carry or keep a human alive. Musk, who recently criticized the Pentagon's F-35 program, believes future wars will be dominated by drones and hypersonic missiles, with human-piloted fighter jets being destroyed quickly.

Despite these views, military experts argue that there are still advantages to manned fighter jets, including a human pilot's flexibility and the extensive capabilities of the F-35 in bombing, surveillance, battle management, and communications. A Pentagon spokesperson defended the performance of the US's combat-capable aircraft, stating that pilots prefer these fighters for war situations.

Key takeaways

  • Marc Andreessen, a cofounder of Andreessen Horowitz, stated that AI-controlled jets are superior to crewed fighter jets, as they can move faster and don't have to keep a human alive.
  • Andreessen's comments echo those of Elon Musk, who criticized the Pentagon's F-35 program and advocated for drone warfare, stating that crewed fighter jets are an inefficient way to extend the range of missiles or drop bombs.
  • Musk was recently appointed as the co-lead of President-elect Donald Trump's new Department of Government Efficiency, and his comments on the F-35 program have gained significance.
  • Despite the advantages of drones, military experts argue that there are still benefits to having manned fighter jets, such as a human pilot's flexibility and the extensive capabilities of the F-35.
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