Responding To Elon Musk's Criticism, Pentagon Conducts Data Leaks Investigation

JAKARTA - The Pentagon has started an investigation using a polygraph test to track the source of the alleged data leak, following US billionaire Elon Musk's criticism of officials accused of spreading "false information" related to his military ties, Briomberg reported on Saturday (22/3).

The investigation began after Joe Kasper, Chief of Staff of Defense Minister Pete Hegseth, called for an investigation into "unauthorized disclosure" of sensitive information concerning national security. Kasper also urged that the party responsible be brought into the realm of law to be prosecuted criminally.

"Investigation of this leak will begin soon and lead to a report to the Minister of Defense. The report will include a complete note regarding the disclosure of unauthorized information within the Department of Defense, as well as recommendations to increase efforts to prevent similar leaks in the future," Kasper wrote in an internal memo published Friday evening. and quoted by ANTARA.

Musk, whose company has a billion-dollar defense contract, visited the Pentagon on Friday (21/3) to discuss cost efficiency and innovation.

However, controversy emerged even before his arrival, after The New York Times reported that Musk was scheduled to receive high-level classified briefings on US military strategy in dealing with potential conflicts with China.

Citing several sources, the media expressed concerns about Musk's access to classified material, given his extensive business ties as well as previous statements about Beijing, including his claim that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China.

Despite the report, President Donald Trump and Defense Minister Hegseth denied any plans to provide Musk with high-level intelligence access.

Amid the increasing spotlight, Musk used his social media platform, X, to call for legal action against Pentagon officials he said had leaked misleading information to the media.