Kathrine Frich
The Air Force reportedly fears Cybertrucks could be adapted for hostile purposes.
The Air Force reportedly fears Cybertrucks could be adapted for hostile purposes.
US Air Force Buys Tesla Cybertrucks for Target Practice
According to The War Zone, the US Air Force has decided to purchase two Tesla Cybertrucks, not for transport, but to be destroyed in weapons tests.
The move is part of a broader program to prepare for the possibility that the vehicles could one day be used by enemy forces or terrorists.
Why the Military Wants Cybertrucks as Targets
The Air Force reportedly fears Cybertrucks could be adapted for hostile purposes.
While some experts view this as an unlikely scenario, officials want to understand exactly how the vehicles withstand modern weaponry.
Not Required to Be Fully Operational
The procurement documents state the Cybertrucks don’t need to run under their own power.
They must, however, be structurally complete and towable, ensuring they can be used effectively during testing.
Advanced Weapons Testing Planned
At the White Sands Proving Ground in New Mexico, the Cybertrucks will face an arsenal of American weapons.
Tests will include strikes from AGM-114 Hellfire anti-tank missiles, capable of Mach 1.3 speeds and an 8–11 km range, as well as GBU-69/B laser-guided bombs.
A Controversial Purchase
With a starting price of around $60,000, Cybertrucks cost far more than the vehicles typically used for military target practice.
Critics also question their relevance, as electric vehicles are seen as less appealing for terrorists compared to conventional fuel-powered vehicles.
Real-World Examples of Weaponised Cybertrucks
Despite scepticism, there is precedent for armed groups using Cybertrucks.
Reports note that the Kadyrovites, a Chechen paramilitary group, have previously mounted machine guns on similar vehicles.
Part of a Larger Testing Program
The Cybertrucks are just two of 33 vehicles the US Air Force is buying for weapons testing.
The rest of the fleet will include sedans, trucks, pickups, and SUVs, with no requirement for specific brands or models.
Next Stop: White Sands Proving Ground
Once delivered, the Cybertrucks and other vehicles will be deployed to White Sands Proving Ground, one of the US military’s most prominent testing facilities, where they’ll be subjected to controlled destruction in the name of research.
