Firm says it cannot comply with Pentagon’s request for unfettered AI model use
US-based startup Anthropic has indicated that it cannot allow its artificial intelligence technology to be used without restrictions, as the Defense Department has demanded.
The Pentagon has been signing contracts with generative AI developers and others. It apparently wants to have an advantage over other nations, such as China, when it comes to the military use of AI technology.
In a statement released on Thursday, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei said that the company “cannot in good conscience accede” to the department’s demand.
The statement said the use of generative AI technology for mass domestic surveillance, and in fully autonomous weapons that operate without human involvement, could undermine democratic values.
Defense Department spokesperson Sean Parnell posted a message on social media. He said, “Here’s what we’re asking: Allow the Pentagon to use Anthropic’s model for all lawful purposes.” Parnell added, “We will not let ANY company dictate the terms regarding how we make operational decisions.”
US and European media outlets say the Trump administration has warned Anthropic that all contracts will be canceled, if it does not accede to the Pentagon’s request.
