A former Air Force intelligence officer testified Tuesday that federal agencies have concealed billions of dollars in annual spending from congressional oversight, allegedly funneling funds into unidentified aerial phenomena programs operating outside normal channels. David Grusch, who previously served on the Pentagon’s UAP Task Force, made the allegations during a Capitol Hill event alongside members of the House Task Force on the Declassification of Federal Secrets. The claims intensify ongoing disputes between lawmakers and intelligence agencies over access to classified UAP records.
Grusch described discovering what he termed “slush funds” worth billions of dollars per year during his investigation. He characterized the spending pattern as a significant fraud and waste issue affecting taxpayer resources. The former National Reconnaissance Office representative to the task force gained national prominence in 2023 after testifying before Congress about alleged government efforts to recover and study unexplained craft. His latest statements come amid renewed pressure from lawmakers and the Trump administration to declassify UAP-related documents.
Defense Intelligence Agency faces obstruction accusations
The former officer specifically targeted the Defense Intelligence Agency, accusing the Pentagon’s primary military intelligence arm of blocking congressional oversight efforts. Grusch alleged that lawmakers’ lawful requests for records have not been fully honored despite repeated attempts to obtain information. He urged the agency to release additional documents for review and potential declassification. The DIA did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the allegations.
Pentagon officials have consistently maintained that investigations have not uncovered verified evidence of extraterrestrial technology. Previous government reviews disputed claims that secret crash-retrieval programs exist. The Trump administration’s fiscal year 2027 budget includes nearly $132 billion in military and national intelligence spending, with substantial portions contained in classified programs accessible only to cleared officials and select lawmakers.
Claims of multiple non-human intelligence species
When questioned about government knowledge of non-human intelligence, Grusch claimed federal authorities are aware of “several” different alien species. He described a spectrum ranging from corporeal bipedal life forms to what he characterized as sentient plasma-based entities. The former intelligence officer did not provide evidence or elaborate further on these claims during the event. His statements represent some of the most explicit public allegations about government knowledge of extraterrestrial beings made by a former official.
Bipartisan lawmakers demand transparency and accountability
A bipartisan group of representatives joined the press conference, arguing that agencies have consistently resisted congressional information requests related to unidentified anomalous phenomena. Rep. Jared Moskowitz, a Florida Democrat, described a pattern of escalating pushback from agencies when lawmakers sought information. He noted that attempts to include language in amendments and bills were actively opposed by federal officials.
Rep. Eric Burlison, a Missouri Republican, called for real penalties for officials who knowingly withhold information from Congress. Moskowitz connected the UAP debate to broader Pentagon accountability concerns, questioning where trillions in missing Pentagon funds have gone. The Department of Defense has failed seven consecutive annual audits, though officials attribute the findings to longstanding challenges in tracking assets and accounting systems across the massive organization.
- Grusch alleged billions in annual spending hidden through slush funds
- Defense Intelligence Agency accused of obstructing congressional oversight
- Former officer claims government knows of several alien species
- Lawmakers seek immunity protections for potential whistleblowers
- Trump administration released major tranche of previously classified UAP records
Immunity proposals and witness protection efforts
Burlison urged President Donald Trump to waive non-disclosure agreements for individuals with knowledge of alleged government UAP programs and grant immunity to those willing to testify. The congressman called for opening the door to anyone who has come forward or will come forward with information. Grusch stated that additional witnesses remain reluctant to speak publicly because of concerns about retaliation and legal exposure.
Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, a Florida Republican who chairs the House task force examining the issue, said lawmakers are discussing immunity protections for individuals with knowledge of alleged craft locations, recovered materials or advanced technologies. Burlison revealed his office obtained MQ-9 drone footage of a UAP incident off the coast of Yemen through what he described as a dead drop method. The congressman emphasized that agencies and contractors know lawmakers are aware specific records and videos exist.
Recent declassification efforts and ongoing disputes
The renewed push for transparency follows recent Trump administration releases of previously classified UAP records, including military reports, sensor data and witness accounts that had remained hidden from public view. Lawmakers and disclosure advocates pointed to these releases as evidence the government is becoming more transparent about UAP investigations. However, they maintain that significant amounts of information remain classified and inaccessible.
Federal investigators recently alleged that former CIA official David Rush used a fraudulent special access program in a scheme involving more than $40 million in gold bars and millions in government funds. The case drew renewed attention to how highly restricted government programs can operate with limited outside visibility. Lawmakers argued the incident demonstrates the need for enhanced oversight of classified programs operating with minimal congressional review.
The bipartisan group emphasized that obtaining additional disclosures may depend on persuading more witnesses to step forward with information. Representatives stated they continue pressing agencies and defense contractors for records they believe remain classified despite recent disclosure efforts. The task force members expressed determination to secure the release of specific materials they maintain exist within government and contractor systems.
