Democratic senators from the United States have urged the Pentagon to launch an immediate investigation into SpaceX amid allegations that Chinese investors have secretly acquired stakes in the private rocket company, according to a letter obtained by "Reuters".
Senators Elizabeth Warren and Andy Kim have written to Defense Secretary Pete Hegsett, expressing concerns that any Chinese involvement in SpaceX could pose a "national security threat" and threaten key military, intelligence, and civilian infrastructure.
The lawmakers cited media reports and court testimony that Chinese-linked investors funneled funds through offshore structures in the Cayman Islands and the British Virgin Islands to cover up their acquisitions of shares in SpaceX.
Founded by Elon Musk, the company plays a central role in U.S. national security infrastructure, launching military and intelligence satellites and operating the Starlink communications network used by the Pentagon and to help defend Ukraine.
In their letter, the senators warned that any Chinese involvement could trigger U.S. foreign ownership, control, or influence (FOCI) rules because of the risk of access to sensitive information and technology. They are demanding that the Department of Defense disclose the extent of any Chinese ownership, assess whether SpaceX is subject to FOCI restrictions, and whether foreign investment should be reviewed by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS). A response is expected by February 20.
The senators note that SpaceX’s recent acquisition of xAI further heightens the urgency of questions about possible Chinese involvement. They say the company’s expansion of its business — from rockets and space internet to artificial intelligence and communications — heightens national security risks from unregulated foreign influence.