In this modern age of social media and technology, Elon Musk, who possesses X (formerly known as Twitter), wields his influence over the platform like a bard with his journal, littered with hasty scribbles and musings, rather than a grand stage for discourse and information dissemination. Many individuals find themselves drawn into the labyrinthine task of debunking the proclamations he espouses, such as his recent controversial commentary regarding the F-35.
Towards the end of November, Musk shared a tapestry of drone videos, depicting the remarkable strides made in technological advancement. These aerial displays showcase drones orchestrating intricate light shows and engaging in what appears to be simulated military exercises. From this spectacle, Musk opined that companies still engrossed in the development of manned fighter jets, like the F-35, are futilely expending their efforts. Yet, this declaration did not go unnoticed by James Taiclet, the CEO and chairman of Lockheed Martin, the illustrious entity responsible for crafting diverse iterations of the F-35. Mr. Taiclet, in his response, took the higher road, emphasizing the need to pause and contemplate the ethical application of drone technology within the realm of aerial warfare.
Despite the sage observations of an eminent authority in the field, the steadfast devotees of Musk continue to wage battles in defense of their revered figure. They persist in propelling information that even Musk’s own app deems dubious, obstinately adhering to his dogma. Some of these devotees even launch attacks against dissenters who dare to challenge Musk’s viewpoints. A tangible example of this strife manifests in the form of memes that circulate, lampooning Musk’s aspirations to eradicate a certain vehicle acclaimed by many as a paragon of automotive splendor.
Of grave concern are the followers who unleash vitriol upon those who harbor differing opinions from Musk’s perspectives. A prominent content creator on YouTube, LazerPig, released a video entitled “Elon Musk is wrong about the F-35,” only to be met with a deluge of disparaging remarks in the comments section. This combative climate has spawned clashes between LazerPig’s supporters and the self-fashioned “Muskrats,” thus inflaming an already turbulent situation.
Beneath the cacophony of insults and discord lies a profound dialogue awaiting exploration, one that delves into the transformative impact drones will impart on the military landscape in the years to come, and the implications this holds for aircraft like the F-35. Nonetheless, within this arena of discourse, dominated by Musk’s presence, there exists scant room for such contemplation, particularly as the frenzied debates unfold on a platform he adamantly declines to regulate.