20 Things You Didn't Know About Transformers
9. The U.S. Department Of Defense Supported The Film During Production
In order to keep production costs down, the producers approached the U.S. Department of Defense to see if they would be able to support the film. Thanks to Bay's solid relationship with the military, they agreed.
They allowed the production to use real soldiers as extras, and provided real uniforms for the military characters, allowing for the film to keep a sense of realism. In addition to this, they allowed Bay to film many of their best aircraft, including the F-22, which would become the alt-mode for Decepticon air commander Starscream. They also granted the crew access to film at the Pentagon and Hoover Dam, both of which had been off limits to Hollywood productions after 9/11.
Many might wonder what the military gets in return for helping the production out, well according to Bay, he makes them look good.