The U.S. military is exploring the capabilities of the Bitcoin network as part of its operational testing on cybersecurity and network defense, according to Admiral Samuel Paparo, who oversees U.S. forces in the Pacific. This development emerged during a recent hearing of the House Armed Services Committee, where Paparo addressed questions from Representative Lance Gooden regarding the national security implications tied to Bitcoin.
The admiral disclosed that the military currently operates a node on the Bitcoin network, emphasizing that this initiative is not about mining Bitcoin but rather about monitoring and conducting operational tests aimed at securing and protecting military networks. His comments provided an unconventional insight into how the military is assessing Bitcoin’s potential beyond its traditional view as merely a financial asset.
Paparo clarified that the military’s interest in Bitcoin is strictly technical. He highlighted Bitcoin’s underlying technology, particularly aspects like cryptography, blockchain, and reusable proof of work, as essential tools that could enhance the security of military networks and aid in the projection of power. He stated, “From the military application standpoint, my interest in Bitcoin is as a computer science tool.”
During the exchange, Gooden noted the competitive landscape with China, questioning whether an advantage in Bitcoin holdings, similar to precious metals or oil, could be beneficial for the U.S. However, Paparo did not directly engage with this perspective, instead redirecting the conversation toward the technical design of Bitcoin and its relevance to cybersecurity.
In addition to the discussion on Bitcoin, Paparo emphasized the importance of maintaining the dominance of the U.S. dollar, expressing support for any measures that reinforce this status. He referenced the GENIUS Act as a legislative initiative aimed at safeguarding the dollar’s global position.
This hearing comes at a time of heightened focus on cryptocurrency policy within Washington, as lawmakers and industry groups call for clearer regulations on stablecoins and broader market-structure legislation. The U.S. military’s foray into the Bitcoin network underscores a growing recognition of the importance of cyber resilience and innovation in maintaining national security.
