Re:US Special Operations Command picks Anduril to lead count...
by njharman on Wednesday January 26, 2022 @11:50AM
(#30087918)
hobbit, balrog, ent.
Not because trademarks, none are. But because courts have ruled if you use enough elements, esp characters you somehow are infringing copyright. Or rather, it is easier to cave and change your product than endure the risk and expense of long court battle.
If there is a "trademark" issue, I would think they'd need to work directly with the Tolkien Estate, who still own the original works. (Didn't original D&D use "hobbits" and have to change it to "halflings" because of the Estate?)
(IANAIPL)