In a move that could redefine the confluence of technology and military strategy, Jason Lowery, a major in the U.S. Space Force, has officially applied to become a military advisor on the National Security Council (NSC) and the White House Office of Science & Technology Policy (OSTP). This application comes at a pivotal moment as the United States grapples with complex security threats in an increasingly digitized world. Through a post on Twitter, Lowery made his submission known, emphasizing his goal to inform senior defense officials on the implications of Proof-of-Work (PoW) technology for national security. This declaration is not merely an attempt at personal advancement; it signals an intent to influence the direction of U.S. defense policy in a landscape that is continuously evolving.
Lowery has articulated a clear vision: to help shape policies surrounding Bitcoin and PoW technology, which he believes can serve as a crucial asset in enhancing the country’s defense mechanisms. His advocacy centers around the idea that understanding and utilizing these technologies can transform cyber defense efforts, equipping the nation to better manage and deter emerging cyber threats.
One of the cornerstones of Lowery’s proposal is his “Softwar” thesis, which posits that Bitcoin’s PoW mechanism could act as a revolutionary force in national security strategy and cybersecurity. By employing the energy expended during PoW mining, Lowery argues that the U.S. can impose a physical cost on malicious online actions. This concept of utilizing computational power as a non-kinetic defense reinforces the idea that the cyber realm can have tangible real-world implications.
Lowery envisions a scenario where the United States exploits its vast electrical power grid as a “macrochip.” This metaphorical framework suggests that by strategically directing energy resources, the nation could create an environment that imposes constraints on malicious actors, thereby protecting its digital infrastructure. Such innovative thinking could lead to a new dynamic in how defense agencies conceptualize threats and strategies in cyberspace.
A distinctive element of Lowery’s proposal is his suggestion of establishing a U.S. Hash Force—an initiative aimed at enhancing the nation’s cybersecurity capabilities while also maintaining a strategic advantage in digital assets. This concept revolves around fostering a robust Bitcoin hashing industry that can operate as both a defensive mechanism and a potential economic boon.
A strategic Bitcoin stockpile, coupled with a commitment to building a significant hashing industry, presents an unprecedented opportunity for the U.S. military. By focusing on PoW technology, the nation could not only safeguard its systems but also position itself as a leader in a burgeoning digital economy. Lowery’s ideas have already sparked interest in military and political spheres, suggesting that his proposals hold significant appeal among decision-makers who are keen on integrating cutting-edge technologies into defense strategies.
In late 2023, Lowery penned an open letter addressed to the U.S. Defense Innovation Board that urged the Pentagon to investigate the strategic importance of Bitcoin. He likened his proposals to historical military doctrines that utilize technological advancements to deter threats. Additionally, he has sought public support for his advisory application through social media, highlighting a critical barrier to adoption: a general lack of understanding regarding the Department of Defense’s potential role in Bitcoin policy development.
Lowery appeals to civic engagement, calling on individuals to advocate for the inclusion of the DoD in discussions about Bitcoin. This inextricable link between public opinion and policy formulation underscores how essential broader awareness and advocacy are for innovative strategies to gain traction within government frameworks.
A product of rigorous academic and military training, Lowery brings a wealth of experience that enhances the credibility of his proposals. His academic journey, which includes degrees from prominent institutions like Baylor University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), combines technical expertise with practical military insights. Over a decade-long career, he has advised high-ranking officials on defense-related technology, which situates him perfectly to navigate the intersection of Bitcoin technology and national security.
Jason Lowery’s application for a military advisory role is more than the ambition of a dedicated officer; it represents a potential paradigm shift in how the U.S. can navigate the challenges of the digital age. By advocating for the strategic integration of Proof-of-Work technology and Bitcoin into national defense policy, Lowery is attempting to shape not just military strategy, but also the future of cybersecurity in an intricate and rapidly evolving global landscape.