Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX, is reportedly under federal investigation for allegedly failing to meet national security reporting requirements, as per a New York Times report based on internal documents and sources close to the situation.
These investigations are reportedly driven by SpaceX's alleged failure to disclose important details regarding Musk's interactions with foreign leaders. According to The New York Times, which cites eight anonymous sources familiar with the company's internal matters, these omissions have sparked concern among government officials and international allies.
As part of the continuous vetting process for his security clearance at SpaceX, Musk is required to disclose details regarding his private life, foreign travel, and other personal activities. This clearance grants him access to classified information, including advanced U.S. military technology.
At least three federal agencies have launched investigations into SpaceX's reporting practices and Musk's compliance with national security protocols. These include a probe by the Department of Defense's Office of Inspector General earlier this year, along with reviews by the Air Force and the Pentagon's Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security, which began last month.
Air Force Denies Musk Security Clearance
Additionally, the U.S. Air Force recently denied Musk a top-level security clearance, citing potential security concerns.
According to the publication, when contacted for comment, both the Air Force and the Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security referred inquiries to the Department of Defense's Office of Inspector General. In a statement, the office stated that it could "neither confirm nor deny the existence of an ongoing investigation," emphasizing the importance of maintaining confidentiality and preserving the integrity of the investigative process.
SpaceX Employees Raise Concerns Over Reporting Failures
SpaceX employees responsible for ensuring compliance with national security regulations have raised concerns about reporting failures, with some filing complaints with the Department of Defense's Office of Inspector General. These issues, which date back to at least 2021, involve incomplete disclosures of Musk's foreign travel, meetings with international leaders, and personal activities.
Whistleblowers also claim that SpaceX staff, fearing job repercussions, allowed Musk to bypass key protocols. Some of these employees have reportedly been dismissed or pressured to leave the company, according to The New York Times.
U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, who sits on the Senate Committees on Armed Services and Foreign Relations, has expressed concern over Musk's interactions with foreign leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin. Last month, Shaheen formally called for investigations into Musk's communications.
Musk Faces Ongoing Criticism and Controversies
Musk, who has established SpaceX as a key player in space exploration and satellite technology, has often faced criticism for his management of sensitive issues involving global leaders and foreign governments. However, neither Musk nor SpaceX has publicly addressed the allegations or the ongoing investigations. These reviews contribute to the expanding list of controversies surrounding the high-profile CEO.
* This is a contributed article and this content does not necessarily represent the views of btin.co.in