WASHINGTON — The Pentagon wants Michigan automakers to play a bigger role in U.S. defense manufacturing, according to a Wall Street Journal report.

The Journal reported Wednesday that Ford Motor Co. CEO Jim Farley and General Motors Co. CEO Mary Barra have been involved in discussions with top Defense Department officials about the automakers getting more involved in the production of weapons or other military equipment.

"For more than 100 years, GM has supported America’s security, safety, and those who protect our nation," according to a statement from the company. "While that commitment continues, we do not comment on speculation."

GM spokespeople declined to comment further. Ford declined to comment

Even before the United States and Israel began their war with Iran in February, policymakers have been concerned about a dwindling weapons stockpile and defense production capacity that has not kept pace with recent demands.

Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine has strained American resources as Congress, with support from the Biden and Trump administrations, has passed military aid packages to assist Ukraine. The Iran war is straining resources further, though President Donald Trump has insisted the conflict could end soon.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Pentagon discussions with automakers and other U.S. manufacturers.

Some in Washington, like the nonpartisan Center for Strategic and International Studies, have suggested reviving the so-called "Arsenal of Democracy" — a term used by former President Franklin D. Roosevelt and many since to refer to private industrial players aiding the U.S. military effort during World War II.

GM and Ford, in conjunction with medical supply companies, also shifted some of their manufacturing capacity to produce ventilators during the COVID-19 pandemic.

It is unclear, however, if the automakers are equipped to meet the technical sophistication of modern arms production. Some commonly used weapons, like Tomahawk cruise missiles, cost more than $2 million each, per CSIS.

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