Jason Lowery, a major in the US Space Force, has done just that submitted an application to serve as a military advisor to the National Security Council (NSC) and the White House Office of Science & Technology Policy (OSTP).
Lowery announced his application via Twitter, expressing his intention to educate senior defense leaders about the national security implications of POWs. He stated,
“I can confirm that I have submitted an application to serve as a military advisor to the National Security Council and/or the White House Office of Science & Technology Policy.”
He emphasized the importance of understanding the role of POW technology in national defense and encouraged support for his position. He said,
“My goal is to advise the Department of Defense on the national strategic significance of Proof-of-Work (PoW) technology and provide senior leaders with policy recommendations regarding a strategic Bitcoin stockpile and the U.S. Hash Force.”
Known for his “Softwar” thesis, Lowery advocates for the recognition of Bitcoin’s PoW mechanism as a transformative tool for national defense and cybersecurity. He argues that PoW technology can serve as a non-kinetic defense system, projecting power into cyberspace by imposing physical costs on digital actions. He said this approach can deter cyber threats and secure digital infrastructure by converting electrical energy into secure digital assets.
Lowery’s thesis suggests that integrating Bitcoin into national defense strategies could revolutionize the way the US secures its cyberspace. He proposes that the global power grid could act as a “macrochip,” physically restraining malicious actors and protecting data. By developing a robust hashing industry – known as the US Hash Force – the country could increase its cybersecurity and maintain a strategic advantage in the digital space.
His ideas have received attention within military and political circles. In late 2023, Lowery wrote an open letter to the US Defense Innovation Board, urging the Pentagon to investigate the strategic importance of Bitcoin. He suggested that Bitcoin could function as a “compensation strategy” for the 21st century, similar to traditional military tools that deter physical attacks. Members of former President Donald Trump’s campaign reportedly worked with Lowery for insights on incorporating Bitcoin into their policy frameworks.
In another, now-deleted tweet that included a link to a website called “Policies for the People,” he called for public support to strengthen his application. He emphasized that a major obstacle is the lack of understanding about the role of the Department of Defense in Bitcoin policymaking.
“If you want to see me as a military #Bitcoin advisor[…] you can submit a recommendation on this website 👇 The main blocker right now is that most people don’t understand why the Department of Defense should be involved in #Bitcoin policymaking. Your vote can change that.’
Lowery’s background combines military experience with academic research. He graduated from Baylor University with a degree in mechanical engineering and also holds a Master of Science in Engineering and Management from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). His decade-long military career includes roles advising senior officials on technical matters related to defense systems.
The submission of its application marks an important step in its ongoing efforts to integrate proof-of-work technology into national defense strategies. By seeking a formal advisory role, Lowery aims to influence policy at the highest levels, advocating for the United States to recognize and leverage PoW technology as a critical component of national security.
Lowery’s proposals present a new intersection of Bitcoin and defense policy, and could potentially shape how the country addresses cybersecurity issues in an increasingly digital world.