The Pentagon has initiated talks with General Motors and Ford to explore how Detroit's auto manufacturing expertise could strengthen US weapons supply chains. These discussions, led by defense secretary Pete Hegseth, aim to overhaul military procurement by leveraging commercial manufacturing capabilities.

The talks focus on using advanced techniques like 3D printing to produce components for weapons systems and address production bottlenecks. This effort follows criticism from Army secretary Dan Driscoll, who accused major defense contractors of creating overly complex and expensive systems that are difficult to manufacture.

GM already operates a dedicated defense subsidiary and is developing autonomous vehicles for military use, while also contributing to NASA's lunar rover program. The Pentagon views these partnerships as crucial to expanding the defense industrial base and maintaining military superiority through commercial innovation. While no formal agreements have been reached, the initiative signals a significant shift in how the US military approaches weapons production and supply chain management.